Alternative Energy Focus of Makerspace Workshop

Sun, wind, water, geothermal, biomass—even rain—are all sources of renewable energy, which, by 2050, could generate as much as 80% of U.S. electricity, according to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Learn how homeowners can put renewable energy to work during the next free Green S.T.E.A.M. Makerspace workshop at the Mariposa Library at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 28, 2017. The program will be presented by Brooke Hanner of Off-Line Independent Energy Systems in Mariposa. Following the presentation, participants can make a simple solar powered light to take home.

Having a long-standing interest in working with renewable energy technologies, Hanner purchased Offline Solar in 2013 from its founder Don Loweburg, a California PV energy pioneer.

Hanner calls this business “the best, because providing clean energy choices is a win for all.” He loves being able to integrate the latest industry or computer technologies into Offline Solar’s system designs and helping his clients understand and enjoy their clean energy purchases. Brooke has also installed wind-generating systems locally. He looks forward to sharing the basics of photovoltaic (PV) energy and other clean energy technologies with attendees at the workshop.

Kids will also learn about renewable energy during their own workshop at 10 a.m. in the children’s room. After listening to a story, younger children can make a sundial from a pine tree round, while older children can construct a solar-powered vehicle from recyclables and then race their creations to win a prize.

Once a month, the Library offers free presentations and workshops through its Green S.T.E.A.M. Makerspace program. The workshops focus on sustainability and the five components of S.T.E.A.M.—science, technology, engineering, art and math. During each program, participants can make a product related to the day’s topic from used or sustainable materials.

Upcoming programs include dichroic jewelry making with Aubrey SImpson from 9 -11 a.m.  on Saturday, February 4. and sustainable fashion with Renee Sedoo of Groveland at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 25.

This project was supported in whole or in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian. 

For more information about the makerspace program, go to the Mariposa Library website at MariposaLibrary.org, call the Library at 209-966-2140, or email karen.dusek@mariposalibrary.org.