Texas: Wind and Efficiency - Earth: The Operators' Manual

Geoff Haines-Stiles Productions

This engaging video focuses on national and global wind energy potential by specifically highlighting Texas' role as wind energy leader and energy efficiency efforts in Houston, Texas.

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Notes from our reviewers

The CLEAN collection is hand-picked and rigorously reviewed for scientific accuracy and classroom effectiveness. Read what our review team had to say about this resource below or learn more about how CLEAN reviews teaching materials.

This engaging video could be used to kick off a module about wind energy.
Numbers given are not cited, but scientist Richard Alley is a reputable and well-known leader in climate science. Discusses pros and cons of wind energy (emphasizing pros) and the need for continued research into renewables and energy efficient technology. The 2030 energy portfolio proposed is overly ambitious and would require an unlikely build-out of renewable energy infrastructure and technological development. 2016 update: renewable energy is scaling up rapidly. Educators are advised to seek up-to-date information and present current statistics and projections along with this video. Comments from expert scientist: Good overview and outlook. No major problems.
The host, Richard Alley, is a well-known climate scientist and models exemplary skills in communicating complex information to a wide audience. Shows how wind is a potential energy resource in West Texas, which sits at the southern end of the US wind corridor. Talks about how "green energy" translates to economic gains for some stakeholders in communities. An annotated script, learning objectives, vocabulary, and teaching tips are provided. Learning activities are suggested, including one that is in the CLEAN collection.