Project Summary:

The NAU Solar Capstone project evaluates the performance and economic viability of existing solar thermal technology to reduce the university’s reliance on centralized natural gas boiler plants. Spearheaded by Mechanical Engineering students operating within the Renewable Energy Test Facility, the team conducts rigorous testing on a repurposed solar panel previously installed on the Health and Learning Center. By measuring solar irradiation, water flow rates, and temperature differentials, the engineers calculate the precise energy capture potential for heating internal campus hydronic loops. This hands-on, analytical initiative provides critical, data-driven insights into mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, specifically carbon dioxide and nitrous oxides. Ultimately, this collaborative effort equips university planners with the necessary performance metrics to design future renewable heating systems, driving the mountain campus closer to its comprehensive carbon neutrality objectives.

Project Lead:

Cole Jennings

Project Advisor:

Jennifer Wade

Date:

2020-05-20

Funding Amount:

$545.99

Department:

Mechanical Engineering

Supporting Documents