November 01, 2021
Full STEAM Ahead
We’re ready for full STEAM ahead! November 8th marks the official day to celebrate and inspire kids to pursue their interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics. It’s undeniable that STEAM is all around us, and the skills developed from these subjects are essential to the success of the future generation.
Why is it so important? Of the U.S. Labor Department’s predicted fastest growing occupations, nearly all of them are STEAM careers. This includes the solar industry, with solar installers making the list at number five. FPL SolarNow is committed to raising awareness about the importance of solar and educating future generations on the power of renewable energy to reduce emissions.
It’s no secret that STEAM education is critical to ensuring that today’s students are prepared for tomorrow’s competitive economy. In fact, studies in the early 2000s revealed that U.S. students were not achieving in these disciplines at the same rate as students in other countries. That’s why FPL is committed to partnering with organizations, like the Girl Scouts, to encourage female leadership and motivate young minds through STEAM.
Sparking curiosity about solar energy starts with seeing it in action. This November 8th, celebrate STEAM Day by checking out our unique solar arrays or by engaging in hands-on experiments to witness the power of the sun first-hand.
Solar Energy Up Close
As part of the FPL SolarNow program, 70+ local parks, zoos and museums have been transformed into outdoor living classrooms throughout Florida for people of all ages to learn about solar energy. At these locations, you can see solar installations – such as solar trees and solar canopies – right in your own backyard.
These innovative structures not only generate shade but also feed clean energy back into the community. The solar arrays are also a prime example of the “E” in STEAM. Solar engineers plan, design, and implement solar energy projects, like these smaller-scale projects, and the large solar fields that you can see when driving through Florida on your next road trip.
We invite you to take part in the STEAM Day celebration by visiting one of our local locations or by taking a virtual solar tour of Florida.
Think Like a Scientist with Solar Experiments
If you’re looking for an interactive activity, check out our experiment videos that will teach your kids about the power of solar energy while having fun at the same time. Trying out these activities is a great way to celebrate the “S” in STEAM!
Did you know you can use solar energy to cook your food? In this video, follow the steps to create a solar oven to make yourself a treat.
On a sunny day, you can discover how colors affect the melting rates of ice cubes. Watch the next video and give it a try to find out which one melts the fastest.
With a few household items and a little critical thinking, you’ll learn which type of matter – gas, liquid or solid – collects more solar energy. Put on your solar scientist hat and watch the next video for an easy-to-do experiment for the whole family.
If you enjoyed these experiments, FPL’s online Energy Curriculum offers even more hands-on experiments, labs and activities for students and teachers to explore step-by-step lessons.
The Way Forward is STEAM
As we celebrate STEAM Day, FPL is dedicated to making Florida a leader in sustainability and educating the future generation through our programs and partnerships. Already ahead of schedule on our goal to install 30 million solar panels by 2030, we are committed to creating jobs and leading the charge in sustainability by promoting education in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics.
It’s all part of a goal to build a more resilient energy future that all of us can depend on.