Hydropower Strategist

Click for salary, education, & more: Hydropower Strategist (estratega de energía hidroeléctrica)

Hydropower Strategists use everyday water sources such as rivers, lakes, and oceans to make energy. But water can’t simply become power with a snap of the fingers! Creating hydropower systems is a complicated process that requires creativity and critical thinking. Do this activity to see if you have what it takes as a hydropower strategist!

STEP 1: Imagine you have been hired by your community to create a hydropower system to generate electricity. Use google earth and your insider knowledge to choose the best location for this new hydropower system.

STEP 2: Once you have selected a location, plan what components your hydropower system will have and how it will work. Research types of hydropower online, and decide which will work best in your community.
Will it be a dam? Generators? Steam? Tidal power? You decide!

STEP 3: Next you will need to present your hydropower system plan to the Town Council. Convince them that your plan is the best by creating a Rube Goldberg model of it!
HINT: A rube goldberg is a series of mini systems that uses everyday items to complete a simple task. These mini systems could include falling dominos, pulleys, or a rolling ball that knocks something over. Here is an example to kickstart your creativity: Simple Steps to Create a Rube Goldberg Machine

Your rube goldberg model should…
– begin with running water
– have at least three mini systems to model the components of your hydropower system
– work in real life!

STEP 4: Share a video of your rube goldberg model in action in the Student Showcase, and submit your plan to your real Town Council if you feel you have a really good idea!