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Renewable Energy Education Materials


Air & Waste Management Association (A&WMA)
One Gateway Center, Third Floor
420 Fort Duquesne Boulevard
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 232-3444
Fax: (412) 232-3450
E-Mail: info@awma.org
Web: www.awma.org

A&WMA is a not-for-profit, nonpartisan professional organization that enhances knowledge and expertise by providing a neutral forum for technology exchange, professional development, networking opportunities, public education, and outreach to more than 9,000 environmental professionals in 65 countries. A&WMA also promotes global environmental responsibility and increases the effectiveness of organizations to make critical decisions that benefit society. For more information about A&WMA, please visit our website at www.awma.org.

A&WMA provides educational materials for teachers and students in kindergarten through grade 12. Materials are designed to improve the environmental literacy of students and educators and introduce them to actions that they can take to reduce waste, conserve energy, and develop pollution prevention plans. Materials include fact sheets and information books on such topics as air pollution, pollution prevention, recycling, hazardous waste, landfills, and others. A&WMA also produces the Environmental Education Resource Guides (EERGs) on air quality and nonpoint source pollution prevention. EERGs are supplementary curricula with a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to environmental education.

We encourage A&WMA members and other interested parties to sponsor local teacher-training workshops. The workshops provide teachers an opportunity to participate in EERG activities and create an ongoing dialogue between environmental professionals and the educational community. Contact A&WMA headquarters to find out about teacher-training opportunities in your area or to order public education materials.   2

The Alliance to Save Energy 
1850 M Street, NW, Suite 600
Washington DC 20036
(202) 857-0666
Fax: (202) 331-9588
E-Mail: greenschools@ase.org
Web: www.ase.org
Energy Hog E-Mail: mellingson@ase.org
Energy Hog Web: www.energyhog.org

The Alliance to Save Energy is a coalition of prominent business, government, environmental, and consumer leaders who promote the efficient and clean use of energy worldwide to benefit consumers, the environment, economy, and national security.

Green Schools Program
The Alliance’s Green Schools Program is a comprehensive energy savings program for K-12 schools that incorporates energy education and energy-saving activities in and around the school building. Students begin to understand energy and its link to the environment and economics, and the schools benefit by cutting energy costs. Free, downloadable lessons plans, information about the Green Schools Program, contact information and more are available online at www.ase.org/greenschools

Energy Hog Campaign
The Alliance to Save Energy’s Energy Hog Campaign is a national public service advertising campaign created by the Ad Council in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, The Home Depot, North American Insulation Manufacturers Association, and 20 state energy offices. The campaign features a dastardly character, the Energy Hog, who bring to life the invisible concept of energy waste.

The Energy Hog makes saving energy fun for children and empowers them to work with their parents to make wise energy choices. Kids can become official Energy Hog Busters by beating the Energy Hog on the website www.energyhog.org.

The Energy Hog Challenge is a set of classroom educational activities on the benefits of saving energy and includes a teacher and student guides. Students learn where energy comes from, how we use it, and why saving energy is important. They also discuss how to search out and destroy Energy Hogs in their own home. The guidebooks can be downloaded free at www.energyhog.org.  3

The American Chemical Society

1155 16th Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 872-4075
Fax: (202) 833-7732
E-Mail: education@acs.org
Web: www.chemistry.org

The world’s largest scientific society with a membership of over 158,000 chemists and chemical engineers.

Publishes educational materials for use in grades 4 through 12: The Best of Wonder Science, Volumes I and II, offers hundreds of hands-on activities for elementary school students; ChemMatters, an award-winning magazine for high school students, relates chemistry to everyday life (published quarterly, back issues are available); ChemCom, a chemistry textbook program for high school students, connects basic chemistry concepts and content to the real world; Introduction to Green Chemistry, a laboratory manual for advanced high school chemistry students, introduces students to environmentally benign industrial processes that begin with renewable resources; and Science in a Technical World (STW), a series of high school science modules, places students in a variety of problem-solving roles as chemical technicians.

All of these products include such energy-related topics as electricity, recycling, nuclear energy, and the environment. A free Teaching Resources Catalog is available upon request.   5

American Chemistry Council (ACC)

1300 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 741-5000
Fax: (703) 741-6000
Web: www.americanchemistry.com

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry.

ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people’s lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care®, common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $550 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation’s economy. It is one of the nation’s largest exporters, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation’s critical infrastructure.  6


American Electric Power
Community Relations
1 Riverside Plaza, 19th Floor
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 716-1668
Fax: (614) 716-2699
E-Mail: educate@aep.com
Web: www.aep.com

American Electric Power is one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, delivering electricity to more than 5 million customers in 11 states. AEP ranks among the nation’s largest generators of electricity, owning nearly 36,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the U.S. AEP also owns the nation’s largest electricity transmission system, a nearly 39,000-mile network that includes more 765 kilovolt extra-high voltage transmission lines than all other U.S. transmission systems combined. American Electric Power, based in Columbus, Ohio, is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2006.

Provides free educational services to pre-K through grade 12 educators in areas served by American Electric Power’s operating units: AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana and east Texas).

Internet resources at the website include The Electric Universe® for students, teachers and parents; and Learning from Light and Learning from Wind, featuring graphs of actual solar and wind power generation at participating schools and sites. Other services include live theatre presentations on electrical safety for elementary schools; classroom resources; information centers, tours and nature trails; and educator workshops.   9

American Forest Foundation––Project Learning Tree
1111 19th Street, N.W., Suite 780
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 463-2475
Fax: (202) 463-2461
E-Mail: info@plt.org
Web: www.plt.org

Project Learning Tree is sponsored nationally by the American Forest Foundation. A nonprofit educational and conservation organization developing, funding, and administering programs that encourage the long-term stewardship of our natural resources. The Foundation’s core programs are Project Learning Tree (PLT) and American Tree Farm System.

Project Learning Tree (PLT) is sponsored at the State level by a variety of State natural resource and education agencies. Crafted to meet State and national standards, PLT provides all the tools educators need to bring the environment into their classrooms––and their students into the environment. PLT’s supplementary curriculum guide, Project Learning Tree: Environmental Education Pre K-8 Activity Guide (96 multidisciplinary activities), focuses on the total environment: land, air, and water. It is local, national, and global in scope. The curriculum underscores PLT’s primary goal––to increase students’ understanding of our complex environment. PLT is designed to teach students how to think, not what to think, about environmental issues. The curriculum remains easily adaptable to many settings from the classroom to youth organizations, museums, nature centers, and Scout troops. Each activity features Reading Connections, and many activities have Technology Connections and Differentiated Instruction identified.

Two of the storylines in the Project Learning Tree: Environment Education Pre K-8 Activity Guide focus on energy. The first storyline highlights the concept that energy exists in different forms and comes from renewable and non-renewable sources. The second storyline emphasizes that societies use energy in many different ways and that human use of energy has short- and long-term social, economical, environmental, and health impacts. These energy storylines are comprised of 14 activities. PLT provides secondary education teachers with a series of topic-specific modules that challenge students to explore every facet of an issue—illustrating the complexity of real-life environmental decisions. In particular, PLT’s secondary education module, Exploring Environmental Issues: Municipal Solid Waste, helps students explore causes and solutions of this universal urban environmental issue.

PLT offers the Energy & Society kit—energy education materials at the Pre K-8 level. Students learn about their relationship with energy and investigate the environmental issues related to energy’s role in society. Energy & Society helps students develop critical thinking skills to make decisions about their personal energy use. In addition to hands-on activities, Energy & Society integrates music and dance to enhance the study of energy issues. The kit includes an activity guide with background information for educators, music CD, dance video, and poster set, and is available online at http://shop.plt.org, as well as through workshops. All PLT curricular materials are available through local workshops. Contact PLT for the name of the program coordinator in your state or visit the PLT website at www.plt.org for more information on all of PLT’s programs.   10

American Geological Institute (AGI)
4220 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22302-1502
(703) 379-2480
Fax: (703) 379-7563
E-Mail:  agi@agiweb.org 
Web:  www.agiweb.org

The American Geological Institute is a nonprofit federation of 44 geoscientific and professional associations that represents more than 100,000 geologists, geophysicists, and other earth scientists. Founded in 1948, AGI provides information services to geoscientists, serves as a voice of shared interests in our profession, plays a major role in strengthening geoscience education, and strives to increase public awareness of the vital role the geosciences play in society’s use of resources and interaction with the environment.

AGI disseminates information on earth science education through several mechanisms, including publications such as high-school curricula (EarthComm™) and middle-school curricula (Investigating Earth Systems™); and workshops and presentations for teachers and educators. Visit www.agiweb.org/education for more information. AGI also publishes Geotimes, a monthly news magazine (www.geotimes.org), and provides geoscience career information (www.agiweb.org/careers). During the second full week of October, AGI sponsors Earth Science Week to raise awareness about how the earth sciences affect our lives and society (www.earthscienceworld.org/week). The Earth Science World ImageBank (www.earthscienceworld.org/imagebank/) provides a library of geoscience images for free educational use. Earth Science Week Kits and other AGI publications are available on a secure website at www.agiweb.org/pubs.  11

American Nuclear Society
Outreach Department
555 North Kensington Avenue
LaGrange Park, IL 60526
(708) 352-6611
Fax: (708) 352-0499
E-Mail: outreach@ans.org
Web: www.ans.org or www.aboutnuclear.org

A nonprofit scientific and educational organization of professionals in the field of nuclear science and technology.

Offers free publications (single copies) on nuclear energy and uses of the atom. Available materials include Nuclear Energy Facts Q&A, Nuclear Technology Creates Careers, and a Personal Radiation Dose Chart. A free publications list is available upon request by mail or electronic mail at outreach@ans.org. Teachers may sign up for the free newsletter, ReActions, which contains articles on uses of the atom in everyday life and in each issue an “activity card” with a project for classroom use. Short workshops and sessions are held throughout the year at exhibits, conferences, in-service training, and by invitation.  12

American Petroleum Institute (API)
1220 L Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 682-8081
Fax: (202) 962-4719
Web: www.api.org or www.classroom-energy.org

The American Petroleum Institute (API) is the primary trade association for the oil and natural gas industry in the United States. Representing one of the most technologically advanced industries in the world, our membership includes more than 400 companies engaged in the exploration, production, refining, transportation and marketing of petroleum, natural gas and related products.

API supplies educational materials on the petroleum industry to teachers at no charge. API has created an online resource for educators and students that explores the topic of energy at www.classroom-energy.org including classroom activities, interactive tours, and links to a variety of energy education resources. In partnership with Project Learning Tree (PLT), API developed the Energy and Society K-8 education program, including multidisciplinary education materials to help students understand the critical role that energy plays in their daily lives. Program components, all correlated to national education standards, include a music CD and video, posters, study guide and website. The Energy & Me music CD features 15 songs about energy and is a 2002 Parents’ Choice Recommended Award winner. For more information about the program, visit PLT’s website at www.plt.org/curriculum/energy.cfm

Additionally, API offers a wide variety of energy education material for 9-12 graders on API’s website, www.api.org, including interactive modules and videos such as Adventures in Energy, Technology Transforming an Industry and Environmental Commitment, which demonstrate the industry’s cutting-edge technology and continued environmental progress in the exploration, production, refining, transportation and marketing of petroleum products. For a complete list of API’s education materials for all grade levels, please download a brochure at www.classroom-energy.org/teachers/ed_materials/API_Education_Materials.pdf.  14

American Plastics Council (APC)
1300 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 741-5000
Fax: (703) 741-6000
Web: www.plastics.org

APC is a national trade association representing the nation’s largest resin producers, including monomer and polymer production and distribution. Founded in 1988, APC advocates unlimited opportunities for plastics and promotes their economic, environmental and societal benefits. Plastics: A World of Unlimited Opportunities. Plastics Make It Possible®.

APC has an interactive, online version of their Hands on Plastics: A Scientific Investigation Kit curriculum for grades 5-8, as well as the addition of a K-4 Curriculum. The curricula, found at www.teachingplastics.org, was developed in its original format in conjunction with the National Middle Level Science Teachers Association and features background information on plastics and polymers, multi-media examples of classroom activities, and ties to the National Science Education Standards. The information is also available on a CD-ROM. The free kit of supplemental materials for grades 5-8 curriculum can be ordered online, along with other APC publications.   15

American Solar Energy Society (ASES)
2400 Central Avenue, Suite A
Boulder, CO 80301
(303) 443-3130
Fax: (303) 443-3212
E-Mail:  ases@ases.org 
Web: www.ases.org or www.solartoday.org

A national membership association dedicated to advancing the use of solar energy.

The American Solar Energy Society (ASES) is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1954 to encourage the use of solar and renewable energy technologies to be a source of sound, broad technical knowledge and to provide a forum for addressing critical issues relating to these energy technologies. ASES publishes the magazine SOLAR TODAY; sponsors the annual National Solar Energy Conference and the Annual ASES National Solar Tour; and supports regional chapters throughout the country. ASES is the United States section of the International Solar Energy Society. ASES offers sample copies of its magazine, SOLAR TODAY. It has one science project book, Elementary and Secondary Science Projects in Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, available for a fee. See www.ases.org or www.solartoday.org for more details and to download additional information.  17

American Wind Energy Association (AWEA)
1101 14th St. N.W., 12th Floor
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 383-2500 Main
(202) 383-2514 Direct
Fax: (202) 383-2505
Web: www.awea.org
Web: www.aweastore.com

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) is the national association of the U.S. wind energy industry. AWEA’s membership is composed of companies and individuals dedicated to advancing the use of clean, renewable wind energy. The mission of AWEA is to promote wind power growth through communication, education, and advocacy.

AWEA offers an Educator’s Packet on wind energy, including: a Wind Energy Teacher’s Guide; the current Wind Energy Status Report, which outlines the domestic and international growth of the wind industry; the Basic Facts About Wind Energy, which discusses the scale of wind projects, as well as economic development; and a Wind Energy Information Guide, a compilation of further sources to contact for information about wind energy. Packets are free upon request.

Other educational materials, such as videos and posters, are available for a fee through the AWEA online publications listing. Educators are encouraged to visit the AWEA website at www.awea.org.   19

Arizona Department of Commerce Energy Office
1700 West Washington, Suite 220
Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 771-1144
Fax: (602) 771-1203
E-Mail: jima@azcommerce.com
Web: www.commerce.com or http://azsolarcenter.com

A DOE-funded program that emphasizes an energy efficiency curriculum for students in kindergarten through grade 12.

Provides materials for primary and secondary schools through downloadable PDFs on its website. Information includes Bright Ideas (single-topic publication covering energy and the environment, recycling, solar cooking, and photovoltaics).   20

Aseptic Packaging Council (APC)

2120 L Street, N.W., Suite 600
Washington, DC 20037
Web: www.aseptic.org

A trade association representing the U.S. manufacturers of drink boxes. APC’s primary mission is to inform the American public about the product benefits and environmental attributes of aseptic packaging.

For more information, visit the APC website at www.aseptic.org.  21

Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE)

Educational Services
7225 Windsor Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21244
(410) 265-4098
Fax: (410) 265-4299
Web: www.bge.com

Baltimore Gas and Electric Company is an investor-owned utility serving Baltimore City and all, or part of, nine Central Maryland counties.

Provides educational services free of charge to schools in BGE’s service area. Services include classroom programs, career programs, resources, videos, and classroom literature for students in kindergarten through grade 6. Plant tours can be arranged through Constellation Energy Group by calling (410) 783-3272.  Teachers may order materials through BGE’s website above.   22

BP’s A+ For Energy Program

BP - California Community Relations
6 Centerpointe Drive, 797
La Palma, CA  90623
E-Mail: Irene.Brown@bp.com
Web: www.aplusforenergy.com

BP is a global producer, manufacturer, and marketer of oil, gas, chemicals, and renewable energy sources. Californians know BP best as ARCO and the ARCO ampm convenience store brand. Every day, BP serves approximately 13 million customers in more than 100 countries with energy solutions. Every day, more than 100,000 BP employees combine their energy and innovation to build the BP brand.
The A+ for Energy Program was developed by BP to recognize California teachers for innovation and excellence in teaching energy and/or energy conservation in the classroom. Any K-12 teacher currently teaching in a California public or private school is encouraged to participate.


BP awards up to $2 million in grants to K-12 California teachers for innovative classroom, after-school, extra-curricular, or summer activities focused on energy and/or energy conservation. Grants of $5,000 or $10,000 are awarded directly to teachers, based on the budget submitted with the application. In addition, grant winners receive energy education curriculum units designed and developed by the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project.  Teachers receive over $1,500 of resources – including hands-on classroom energy transformation kits, tools to teach energy in any discipline, and sponsorship to attend the NEED Energy Conferences for Educators scheduled in July each year. For more information about the grant program, visit www.aplusforenergy.com. For information about the classroom materials, visit www.need.org.  23


Bullfrog Films
P.O. Box 149
Oley, PA 19547
(800) 543-3764
Fax: (610) 370-1978
E-Mail: video@bullfrogfilms.com
Web: www.bullfrogfilms.com  

An educational film distributor that offers the largest collection of energy videos and DVDs in the country.

Provides educational videos and DVDs on energy and energy-related issues. Titles include: Biogas from the Sea; Building the Brookhaven House; Design with the Sun; The Four Corners: A National Sacrifice Area?; How to Keep the Heat in Your House; Kilowatts from Cowpies: The Methane Option; Water Power; In Our Own Backyards: Uranium in the U.S.; Uranium; Small Is Beautiful: Impressions of Fritz Schumacher; Harness the Wind; Downwind/Downstream; Poison in the Rockies; Lovins on the Soft Path; Opening Your House to Solar Energy; Journey of the Blob; Wake Up Freddy; Going Green: How to Reduce Your Garbage; Recycling is Fun!; Rising Waters: Global Warming and the Fate of the Pacific Islands; Silent Sentinels; Global Warming: Turning Up the Heat; Turning Down the Heat: The New Energy Revolution; Living Under the Cloud: Chernobyl Today; Turning the Toxic Tide; Race for the Future; An Energy-Efficient Doghouse; Solar Energy Doghouse; City Lights; Rethink-Pollution Prevention Pays; Recycling With Worms; Planet Neighborhood; It’s Eco-Logic; Water and the Human Spirit; Here’s My Question: Where Does My Garbage Go?; Motor; Nuclear Dynamite; Save Our Land, Save Our Towns; The Next Industrial Revolution; Razing Appalachia; Rough Science Series: Sun and Sea; Biomimicry; Good Riddance! Air Pollution; Oil on Ice. Programs are available for purchase or rental. Special packages, with discounted prices, can be created to serve most schools’ needs. A free catalog is available upon request.  25

California Energy Commission
1516 9th Street, MS-29
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 654-4989
Fax: (916) 653-5590
E-Mail:  mediaoffice@energy.state.ca.us
Web:  www.energyquest.ca.gov

The California Energy Commission is the State’s principal energy planning organization, promoting a balanced and competitive energy system through its diverse programs.

Energy Quest, an online resource for students, teachers and parents, is dedicated solely to energy education and features information on renewable energy, conservation, safety, energy-related math and science experiments; word games; and links to other resources. Teachers and students will enjoy learning about electricity generation from You’ve Got the Power video, available on Energy Quest or on VHS or CD format. A perfect partner with the Teacher’s Guidebook Energy for Keeps - Electricity from Renewable Energy is available online.

The Energy Commission also provides energy and environmental education material on-line for teachers - kindergarten through grade 12 - including Compendium for Energy Resources (curriculum evaluation); Universal House; Energy Shelter & the California Indian; Conserve and Renew. The Energy Commission’s Consumer Energy Center, www.consumerenergycenter.org, provides information for older students on renewable technologies, lighting, passive design, transportation, and building materials. 

Renewable Energy Alliance

Sacramento, CA  95814
Phone:  916-654-4180
E-Mail: Mkrapcev@energy.state.ca.us
Web: www.consumerenergycenter.com/renewable/index.html

The California Energy Commission, as part of a statewide renewable energy education program, has formed the Renewable Energy Alliance, a voluntary partnership of organizations connected to California’s renewable energy market. Alliance members combine their efforts to increase consumer awareness of renewable energy sources. As of February 2005, there are 254 individual members from 183 member organizations representing federal, state, regional, community, public, private and/or grassroots renewable energy organizations who have joined the Alliance.  26

Cape Light Compact
PO Box 427 Superior Courthouse
Barnstable, MA  02630
(508) 375-6703
Fax: (508) 362-4136
E-Mail: dfitton@capelightcompact.org
Web: www.capelightcompact.org

The Cape Light Compact is a regional services organization made up of all 21 towns of Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard.  The purpose of the Compact is to represent and protect consumer interests in a restructured utility industry. As authorized by each town, the Compact operates the regional energy efficiency program and works with the combined buying power of the region’s 197,000 electric consumers to negotiate for lower cost electricity, green and renewable energy and energy efficiency benefits. These benefits include home energy assessments, rebates on energy efficient lighting and appliances, subsidies for energy efficient new construction and energy education.

In partnership with the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project and the Barnstable County Cooperative Extension, the Cape Light Compact staff strives to promote an energy-conscious and educated society by creating effective networks of students, educators, and business, government, and community leaders to design and deliver objective, multi-faceted energy education programs. Ongoing teacher workshops are held throughout the year as well as technical support and free use of NEED educational kits. All materials and subject mater are aligned with the Massachusetts state frameworks for grades 3 – 5.  For more information and updates for upcoming workshops, please visit www.capelightcompact.org.  29

Charles Edison Fund
One Riverfront Plaza, 3rd Floor 
Newark, NJ 07102 
(973) 648-0500 
Fax: (973) 648-0400 
E-Mail: info@charlesedisonfund.org  
Web:  www.charlesedisonfund.org

A charitable foundation providing science teachers with simple, basic, proven fun experimental booklets containing 82 experiments.

Provides The Best of Edison Science Teaching Kits, which are available to teachers. Each kit contains nine how-to booklets based on experiments of Thomas Edison and other scientists. These are suitable for grades 4 through 8. Titles include: Energy for the Future; Useful Science Projects; Environmental Experiments; Selected Experiments and Projects; Nuclear Experiments; Energy Conservation; Alternative Energy Sources; Static Electricity — It’s a Snap; and Lewis Howard Latimer Experiments. There is a small fee for handling charges. Write for coupon to receive this kit. These experiments are also located at the above website, which can be downloaded free of charge.  33

City Utilities of Springfield, MO
301 E. Central
P.O. Box 551
Springfield, MO 65801
(417) 831-8348
Fax: (417) 831-8324
E-Mail: Cara.Shaefer@cityutilities.net
Web: www.cityutilities.net

City Utilities of Springfield (CU) is a progressive, community-owned utility serving the Springfield metropolitan area in southwest Missouri with electricity, natural gas, water, telecommunications and transit services.

Offers power station and renewable energy project tours, classroom presentations, an extensive speakers’ bureau, and a variety of energy management resources. City Utilities’ partnership with a local high school has become a model for other business and education partnerships. The partnership between CU employee volunteers and Central High School encourages young people to stay in school and facilitates the school-to-work transition for many students.  35
Culver Company
104 Bridge Road
Salisbury, MA 01952-9904
 (800) 4-CULVER
Fax: (978) 463-1715
E-Mail: customerservice@culverco.com
Web: www.culverco.com

A publisher and distributor of educational materials about energy and related topics.

Produces booklets, educational websites, videos, posters, and program enhancement items for children and adults. Teacher discussion guides are also available. Utilities purchase and distribute these materials in their service areas; other organizations may purchase them directly.  39

Disney Educational Productions
105 Terry Drive, Suite 120
Newtown, PA 18940
(800) 295-5010
Fax: (215) 579-8589
Web: www.Edustation.com

Disney Educational Productions develops and distributes entertaining and thought-provoking videos that excite children of all ages to learn about a variety of subjects.

Offers educational videos (some titles on DVD as well) on energy, the environment, earth science, recycling, and water. Curriculum-oriented videos come with discussion guides and lesson plans. Titles include:

•     Bill Nye the Science Guy shows, such as Garbage, Pollution Solutions, and The Water Cycle. Other relevant Bill Nye titles: Atmosphere, Atoms, Biodiversity, Earth’s Crust—Earth Science Archaeology, Electrical Current, Energy, Erosion, Forests, Fossils, Lakes & Ponds, Oceanography, Rivers & Streams, Rocks & Soil, Simple Machines, Static Electricity, The Sun, Volcanoes, Waves, Wetlands, and Wind
•     Return to Sender: A Story About Littering
•     Recycle Rex (starring Disney’s hip animated recycling dinosaur)
•     The Energy Savers (starring Donald Duck, Mickey Mouse, and Goofy)
•     Zort Sorts: A Story About Recycling
•     The Great Search — Man’s Need for Power and Energy

Bill Nye, the Science Guy, is now available on DVD. The DVDs include a Bi-Lingual (Spanish) mode, Interactive Science Quiz and Glossary, Bonus Footage and extended 20-page Teacher’s Resource Guide.

New ABC News Classroom Edition video series includes one curriculum set entitled The Final Frontier concerning the space program. The individual titles in this set are: The Race to the Moon, The Shuttle Era, To Mars and Beyond, and Space Age Technology. Programs are available for purchase. Call the toll-free number to request a free catalog. 41

EcoSoul/National Fuel Cell Education Program (NFCEP) 
18051 Irvine Boulevard
Tustin, CA  92780
(714) 368-1444
Fax:  (714) 730-8902
E-Mail: Skip@nfcep.org 
Web: www.nfcep.org

Founded in 1993, EcoSoul, Inc. is a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit focusing on energy, education and the environment.  EcoSoul is host to the National Fuel Cell Education Program, promoting ways in which our future hydrogen economy can be realized through practical, hands-on educational materials.  

Our mutual programs are deeply involved in the adoption of renewable energy in our country and the implementation of effective energy technology programs through educating our youth about hydrogen systems, fuel cells, micro-turbines, wind and solar energy, ocean/tidal energy, biomass, biofuels, energy storage, transportation, energy efficiency programs and distributed power generation.  44

Edison Electric Institute (EEI)
701 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20004-2696
(202) 508-5000
To order publications: (800) 334-5453
To fax an order: (301) 843-0159
Web:  www.eei.org

EEI is the association of U.S. shareholder-owned electric companies, industry associates, and international affiliates worldwide.

EEI suggests that you first contact your local electric company for any educational materials. Many utilities have educational programs about energy and the environment for schools. EEI’s limited supply of educational and consumer resources are located in the Products and Services Section online at www.eei.org/products_and_services/descriptions_and_access/index.htm#Consumer-and-Educational-Resources. Publications are available for a fee.  45

eesmarts
P.O. Box 1564, 1-6b
New Haven, CT 06506
(877) 514-2514
Fax: (888) 214-5732

eesmarts is a one-of-a-kind energy education program that’s enlivening Connecticut students and educators alike.

eesmarts is a series of grade-specific curriculum units that use lively characters, exciting stories and hands-on activities to teach students all about energy and how to use it wisely. Created by a team of Connecticut certified educators, each curriculum unit integrates science, language arts, math, citizenship, abstract thinking and the scientific method. The lessons are flexible and interactive, and can be done in two days or two weeks depending on teacher preference and student interest. All lessons are reflective of the Connecticut Mastery Test, Connecticut Framework and National Science Standards. Curriculum units for Grades K-8 are available at NO COST to schools in the United Illuminating Company and the Connecticut Light and Power Company service territories through the Connecticut Conservation and Load Management Fund.   49

Energy Education Group
664 Hilary Drive
Tiburon, CA 94920
(415) 435-4574
E-Mail: energyforkeeps@aol.com
Web: www.energyforkeeps.org

A nonprofit educational organization founded to increase awareness and understanding of renewable energy.

Energy for Keeps is an illustrated guide to electricity from renewable energy. A text for all, plus class activities and science standards correlations (California and national), for grades 6 through 12. Comprehensive, inter-disciplinary, inquiry-based. Information available at www.energyforkeeps.org.   50

EnergyNet U.S.
302 West Hill Street, Suite 102
Champaign, IL 61820
(877) 359-ENET (3638)
Fax: (217) 359-9446
E-Mail: carol@educationaldividends.com
Web:  www.energynet.net

A nonprofit organization offering standards-based, technology-enriched classroom projects for a moderate fee.

EnergyNet offers teaching material appropriate for all grade levels. Elementary students enjoy finding ways for their homes and schools to save energy through our Energy Detectives project. Home Energy Makeover is designed for students in Math and Family & Consumer Sciences classes (grades 5-12). This six-week unit incorporates economics, technology, teamwork and presentation skills. Students will learn to manage a home energy budget, reduce a home’s energy use while increasing comfort, make cost-effective energy remodeling choices and present their suggestions in compelling ways.
Students in grades 6 through 12 have three additional choices: Energy Auditing provides a great background on the many ways students can reduce the costs of energy in their homes and schools; Community Energy Consultants assists students in sharing this knowledge with their community by conducting energy audits on any number of local buildings; and Energy Engineers involves students in the process of designing energy efficiency into school renovation and construction programs. To learn more about the hands-on projects and activities, visit www.energynet.net.  51

EnergyTeachers.org
39 Noble Street
West Newton, MA 02465
917-653-4342
E-Mail: eer@energyteachers.org
Web: http://energyteachers.org

EnergyTeachers.org is a network of teachers and informal educators interested in energy curriculum, working in Massachusetts, New England, and beyond. The network is maintained by teachers who believe that energy production and use are increasingly important topics for classes in science, technology, engineering, and social studies. There are no membership fees. Any teacher can participate at any level in the organization.


EnergyTeachers.org maintains a web site with announcements, curriculum ideas, a calendar, an online forum for sharing ideas, and a bibliography of energy-related materials suited for the classroom or lesson-preparation. Our nonprofit connects busy teachers with free or inexpensive resources proven to work in the classroom. We visit schools for planning meetings with teachers, and we lend books locally (within ~150 km of our office). We occasionally conduct classroom presentations. EnergyTeachers.org also mails a newsletter free to educators nationwide, nine issues per year. Please send email or call us to find out what we can do for you.  52

Enterprise for Education, Inc.

1316 Third Street, Suite 103
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 394-9864
Fax: (310) 394-3539
E-Mail: entfored@aol.com
Web:  www.entfored.com

Offers booklets for primary and secondary school science classes free from many electric utilities.

Contact the education specialist at your local electric utility. Materials also may be purchased directly from the publisher. A catalog is available. Supplies a variety of 8-, 16- and 32-page Energy and Environmental Skill Builder color booklets.

Teachers can create short-to-comprehensive units based on the subject and grade level. The following are available:

•    Environment – Using Our Resources Wisely (grades 2 through 4); The Greenhouse Effect and Global Warming (grades 6 through 12); Percentages Help an Environmental Engineer (grades 6 through 8); and The Clean Air Challenge, 32 pages with video and science experiment kit (grades 8 through 10)
•   Conservation – Efficiency of Electric Appliances (grades 6 through 10); Climate and Comfort (grades 6 through 12); Is Efficiency the Best Energy Source? (grades 9 through 12); King Barkley’s Almost Birthday Disaster, 32-page booklet plus 11-minute sing-along CD (grades kindergarten through 5); and Electricity is in the News (grades 4 through 8)
•    Nuclear Energy – Nuclear Reactor (grades 8 through 12); The Atom and Radiation (grades 6 through 12); and Nuclear Fuel Cycle (grades 8 through 12)
•    Fossil Fuels – Coal: The Once and Future King? (grades 6 through 9); Natural Gas (grades 6 through 12); Geology of Oil (grades 6 through 12); and Refining Oil (grades 8 through 12); Safe at Home; and Leo Learns How to Use Natural Gas Wisely (Grades 4-8, 16-pages).
•    Electricity – Mouse House Surprise, a 32-page teacher big book and student little book  (safety) (grades kindergarten through 2); Sam and Jody Save the Circus (safety) (grades 2 and 3); Paths for Electricity (safety) (grades 3 through 5); Energy Transformations (grades 4 through 9); Generating Electricity (grades 5 through 9); Sources of Electricity (grades 5 through 9); Demand for Electricity (grades 6 through 9); Working With Energy Graphs (grades 6 through 12); Measuring Helps an Electrician Wire an Apartment (grades 4 through 6); An Electrical Engineer Plans an Electrically Safe Outdoor Concert (safety) (grades 5 through 9); Electricity from Wind, Water & Sunlight (grades 4 through 8), that includes a lab activity kit; and Risk: Taking Chances, Making Choices (grades 6 through 10)
•    Waste Management – Hazardous Wastes from Homes, 40 pages and a 48-page teacher’s guide (grades 9 through 12)
•    Water – The Day the Water Stopped teacher big book and student little book (grades kindergarten through 2).  53

The Environmental Education Council of Ohio
PO Box 1004
Lancaster, OH 43130
(740) 653-2649
Fax: (740) 653-6100
E-Mail: director@eeco-online.org
Web: www.eeco-online.org

The Environmental Education Council of Ohio (EECO) is a nonprofit organization that provides cutting-edge environmental education services throughout the state to all educators. EECO has a mission to lead in facilitating environmental education that fosters global stewardship and a sustainable future for all Ohioans.

The Environmental Education Council of Ohio (EECO) is a membership based nonprofit organization that has been providing environmental education services to Ohio and surrounding states since 1967. Since that time we have grown tremendously, and currently provide direct contact throughout the state with Regional Directors in all twelve regions of the Ohio. 

EECO proudly offers cutting-edge workshops, conferences, a quarterly newsletter, green papers and other services to K-12 formal and nonformal educators. EECO is currently branching out to provide services now to adult audiences, the business community, environmental organizations, community based groups, universities, the general public, and other underserved audiences. We hope that you will join us in promoting the value of environmental education for all Ohioans.   54

FirstEnergy Corp.
Community Initiatives Department
76 South Main Street
Akron, OH 44308-1890
(330) 761-4247
Fax: (330) 761-4203
E-Mail: tgilman@firstenergycorp.com
Web: www.firstenergycorp.com/education/

FirstEnergy Corp. is a registered holding company headquartered in Akron, Ohio. Its seven electric utility-operating companies comprise the Nation’s 4th largest investor-owned electric system, serving 4.3 million customers within 36,100 square miles of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

FirstEnergy’s energy education program provides math, science and technology grants and free supplemental resources to educators, youth group leaders, and civic organizations in the communities served by FirstEnergy and our operating companies–Ohio Edison, The Illuminating Company, Toledo Edison, Penn Power, Met-Ed, Penelec, and Jersey Central Power & Light–and where we have facilities. These resources can be ordered on our website at www.firstenergycorp.com/education/.

Check out the latest additions to our site and take a virtual tour of one of our coal generating plants. Without leaving your home, school or computer, you can take an amazing journey through a typical FirstEnergy coal-fired generating plant. Using digitized computer animation, visitors can go behind steel walls and see the inner-workings of complex machinery and systems that generate the electricity that powers your homes, schools and future workplaces. And, take a look at the Electric Avenue section of our site. This interactive site––offering a world of information on electrical safety, energy sources and efficiency––is designed to be an excellent classroom resource. Electric Avenue also features fun energy games and facts geared to all grade levels.  57

Florida Power and Light Company (FPL)
Energy Encounter
6501 South Ocean Drive
Jensen Beach, FL 34957
(877) FPL-4FUN or (877) 375-4386 (toll free)
Fax: (772) 467-7565
Web: www.fpl.com/encounter

A regulated investor-owned utility serving approximately four million customers in Florida.

FPL’s Energy Encounter is a free energy information center that offers interactive exhibits featuring fun and entertaining information about energy, electricity, magnetism and nuclear power. Visitors embark on a treasure hunt exploring the riches of energy to discover that a souvenir awaits all who find the answers to the energy-related questions. Hands-on educational programs designed to meet state science curriculum are offered throughout the school year for grades 1 through 12 (by reservation only). Teacher workshops are offered focusing on science education, energy, and nuclear related topics. On selected days, the College of Turtle is also open. Turtle walks are available in June and July. For more information, call FPL’s Energy Encounter toll-free at (877) FPL-4FUN or (877) 375-4386, or visit our website at www.fpl.com/encounter for directions, hours of operation, and upcoming special events.  58

Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC)
1679 Clearlake Road
Cocoa, FL 32922
(321) 638-1000
Fax: (321) 638-1010
E-Mail: info@fsec.ucf.edu
Web: www.fsec.ucf.edu/ed/teachers and http://energywhiz.com

FSEC is a research institute of the University of Central Florida.


FSEC currently has several free downloadable curriculum units available on the website. The units include hands-on activities and PowerPoint presentations that align to science standards. The solar energy units include Solar Matters I - III for elementary and middle school students, Understanding Solar Energy for high school students, and Solar Wonders, a PowerPoint presentation on the uses of solar energy. The environmental unit, Alternative Fuel Matters is for middle school students, while the Planet Janitor video and coloring book (available on the Energy Whiz site) are for elementary students.
Several new energy units are also now available, High Energy Hydrogen includes units for upper elementary, middle and high school students, and Building Performance Matters is available for high school students. The Energy Whiz website features student projects and submissions that deal with energy as well as experiments and hands-on activities that can be performed at home. A lending library of classroom materials is available for Florida teachers.  59

Frey Scientific
80 Northwest Boulevard
Nashua, NH 03063
(800) 225-3739
Fax: (877) 256-3739
E-Mail: customercare@freyscientific.com
Web: www.freyscientific.com

A full-line supplier of educational materials, equipment and supplies for science, designed for students from kindergarten through college.

Offers a general science catalog that includes over 100 pages of products for earth science and ecology study. Product line consists of books, charts and posters, videos and video discs, software, kits, games, manipulatives, general supplies and equipment, and more. Products are available for a fee; catalog is free of charge.  61

Fuel Cells 2000
1100 H Street, N.W., Suite 800
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 785-4222
Fax: (202) 785-4313
E-Mail: info@fuelcells.org
Web: www.fuelcells.org

Fuel Cells 2000 is a nonprofit program to educate people around the world about the potential benefits of fuel cells, an advanced energy generation technology. Fuel cells combine hydrogen and oxygen electrochemically to produce energy. The only byproducts are water and useful heat.

Produces fuel cell information brochures and sends free information packets in response to requests from students, teachers, and the general public. Some publications include the Fuel Cells in Transportation brochure, the Fuel Cell Quarterly, the free monthly Fuel Cell Technology Update, and comprehensive charts (Fuel Cell Vehicles, Fuel Cell Buses, Fuel Cell Specialty Vehicles, Worldwide Hydrogen Fueling Stations, Worldwide Fuel Cell Installations).

The Fuel Cells 2000 website provides basic fuel cell information, as well as extensive links; FAQs, a news group; an online bibliography of books and articles; and a gallery of fuel cell product images. Fuel Cells 2000 has a Fuel Cell Career and Education Center with company job pages for professionals and educational resources, lesson plans, and experiments for teachers and students, as well as the Fuel Cell Match Maker, an online message board.  62

General Atomics Sciences Education Foundation

3550 General Atomics Court
San Diego, CA 92121-1194
(858) 455-3335
Fax: (858) 455-3379
E-Mail: pat.winter@gat.com
Web: fusioned.gat.com

A high technology research and development center.

Offers information to middle and high school teachers and students regarding current U.S. and worldwide nuclear fusion research that is aimed at understanding plasma science and fusion technology and their roles in providing an energy resource for tomorrow’s needs. Available materials include a 20-minute video (Spanish, French, or English), Fusion: Creating a Star on Earth; STARPOWER, an interactive learning adventure CD; and a teacher resource guide packed with experiments and a workbook on the electromagnetic spectrum, plasma, and radiation. Classroom posters on fusion, radiation, and the electromagnetic spectrum are also available. These items are free while supplies last. Order online at the above website.   63

Geothermal Education Office
664 Hilary Drive
Tiburon, CA 94920
(415) 435-4574
Fax: (415) 435-7737
E-Mail: geo@marin.org
Web: www.geothermal.marin.org

A nonprofit educational organization serving teachers and students to increase awareness and understanding of geothermal energy.

Available for a fee are high school-and elementary school-level videos; an activity-packed geothermal curriculum for grades 4 through 8; and a set of classroom activities for grades 6 through 12 (free with purchase of video). A geothermal slide show (PPT) CD containing 122 colorful graphics and photos is also available for sale. See www.geothermal.marin.org.  64

Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium
1050 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 1000
Washington, DC  20036
(888) ALL-4-GEO
Fax: (202) 558-6759
E-Mail: info@ghpc.org
Web: www.geoexchange.org

For more than a decade, the Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium has been working to increase the awareness and use of geoexchange technology throughout the United States and the world.

The Consortium, a nonprofit advocacy association, believes that the responsible use of energy resources is crucial to the nation’s economy and our quality of life. Toward that end, increasing the use of geoexchange technology will not only dramatically reduce our national energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, but also will slash its users’ energy costs, and our nation’s dependence on fossil fuels. The Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium acts as a resource for anyone wishing to know more about geoexchange technology. Our information catalogue includes items specifically addressing geoexchange installations in schools, homes, and businesses, as well as more generalized topics. All full-color brochures, case studies, reports and documentaries are available for free download online at www.geoexchange.org.

In addition, we will mail out copies of any of our materials to teachers free of charge. Our full-time staff and industry allies can also provide one-on-one technical expertise, marketing research data and insight, and current industry activity status to interested parties via e-mail or over the phone.    65

Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc.
Education and Consumer Affairs Division
900 Richards Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 543-7511
Fax: (808) 543-7412
Web: www.heco.com

An investor-owned electric utility that serves the island of Oahu, in the State of Hawaii.

Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) and its subsidiaries, Maui Electric Company and Hawaii Electric Light Company, provide free teaching materials to kindergarten through 12th grade educators located on the islands of Oahu, Maui and Hawaii. Services include free books and school-based presentations, as well as loaning of CD ROMs, DVDs and videos related to electrical safety, basic electricity, energy conservation, renewable energy, and careers in the electric utility industry; HECO also supports educational programs, such as the Solar Sprint––a miniature solar model car project for middle school students; Sun Power for Schools––schools are provided photovoltaic systems and curriculum based lessons on renewable energy and photovoltaics; FIRST Lego League where students build a non-remote robot using Legos and science and engineering skills to compete in a friendly robotics event and the Kids and Teachers webpage at www.heco.com that provides students and teachers alike with electrifying information. For details on these programs, visit www.heco.com and go to Generation e.   66

JEA
21 West Church Street
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 665-6000
Fax: (904) 665-7386
E-Mail: smitrh@jea.com
Web: www.jea.com

JEA is the eighth largest municipal utility in the country, providing electric, water, and sewer services to its customers. The JEA electric system currently serves more than 360,000 customers in Jacksonville and parts of three adjacent counties. JEA’s water system serves more than 240,000 water customers and 186,000 sewer customers, or more than 80 percent of all water and sewer utility customers in northeast Florida.

JEA provides free energy, sewer and water educational booklets to schools within the JEA service area. Services include student and teacher materials for kindergarten through grade 12; speakers; teacher workshops and programs with affiliates Tree Hill Nature Center and the JEA Science Theatre and AquaExpo at the Museum of Science and History. This exhibit is made up of two parts - the JEA Science Theatre and the AquaExpo. Kids visiting the theatre will participate in interactive science shows and learn about scientific theories as they relate to electricity and electrical safety. The AquaExpo focuses on the scarce and precious nature of water and how we can do our part to conserve it.  71

KidWind Project
2093 Sargent Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55105
(781) 354-2452                      
Fax: (208) 485-9419
Web: www.kidwind.org
E-Mail: michael@kidwind.org

The KidWind Project is a team of teachers, students, engineers and practitioners exploring the science behind wind energy in classrooms around the US.  Our goal is to introduce as many teachers and students as possible to the elegance of wind power through hands-on science activities that are challenging, engaging and incorporate science standards. While improving science education is our main goal, we also aim to help schools become important resources for students, and the general public, to learn about and see wind energy in action.

The KidWind Project website contains detailed information on wind energy, downloadable lesson plans, PowerPoint presentations, movies, animations in addition to kits and materials to build classroom sized wind turbines.   74

LearnOnLine, Inc.  
Thomas H.  Frye Jr.
5286 Villa Mallorca Place
Camarillo, CA  93012 -5329
(805) 383-3640
Fax:  (805) 985-8541
E-Mail: tomfrye@learnonline.com
Web: www.learnonline.com

Founded in 2002, LearnOnLine, Inc., a California for-profit company, is focused on project-based learning using the Internet and World Wide Web for courseware content and student/teacher collaboration. In project-based learning, students work in teams to explore real-world problems and create presentations to share what they have learned. 

LearnOnLine continues to develop the Renewable Energy Education Lab (REEL Power) Project, which is designed as a K-12 and community college teaching aid offering hands-on techniques for learning math and science using renewable energy. REEL Power encourages students to learn to apply the math and science they are studying to simulated real-world renewable energy power generation systems.  76

Midwest Renewable Energy Association
7558 Deer Road
Custer, WI 54423
(715) 592-6595
Fax: (715) 592-6596
E-Mail: info@the-mrea.org
Web: www.the-mrea.org

A grassroots private nonprofit educational organization dedicated to promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency through education and demonstration.

Offers special workshop series for teachers, children, and the general public. Hosts the Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair every June in Central Wisconsin. This annual event features workshops, exhibits, speakers, a model home, renewable energy home tours, alternatively fueled vehicle showcase, entertainment, and more. Offers year-round workshops on renewable energy and energy efficiency. ReNews, a quarterly newsletter, is available for a minimal fee.  78

Minnesota Department of Commerce—Energy Division
85 7th Place East, Suite 500
St. Paul, MN 55101
(651) 296-5175
1 (800) 657-3710
Fax: (651) 297-7891
E-Mail: energy.info@state.mn.us 
Web: www.commerce.state.mn.us

The State Energy Office provides a broad range of energy information to the general public. The State Energy Office also promotes energy efficiency and sustainable energy resource and technology development in Minnesota.

Provides a wide range of energy conservation materials for the general public. Educational materials are targeted to residential, commercial, and industrial audiences. This information is designed to encourage specific conservation practices and to increase public awareness of energy and energy-related issues. Some of these free materials may be appropriate for students in grades 6 through 12. The Department’s Energy Information Center has a full-time staff to provide individualized responses to consumers’ energy-related questions. All printed materials and software are available through our website.   80

National Biodiesel Board
P.O. Box 104898
Jefferson City, Missouri 65110-4898
(800) 841-5849
Web: www.biodiesel.org

The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) is the nonprofit trade association representing the biodiesel industry as the coordinating body for biodiesel research and development in the U.S. The organization fills a vital role of public education for biodiesel, the fastest growing alternative fuel in the country. NBB is considered the leading source for biodiesel information in the U.S. State soybean commodity groups, who have funded biodiesel research and development programs for more than a decade, founded NBB in 1992. Since that time, NBB has developed into a comprehensive industry association, which coordinates and interacts with a broad range of cooperators including industry, government and academia.  NBB’s membership is comprised of state, national, and international feedstock and feedstock processor organizations, biodiesel suppliers, fuel marketers and distributors, and technology providers. NBB represents all feedstocks (sources for biodiesel).

To provide support to teachers and students wanting to learn more about biodiesel in the classroom, NBB, as part of a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant, partners with the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project to provide classroom activities, teacher training, and school district decision maker programs.   84

National Corn Growers Association (NCGA)
632 Cepi Drive
Chesterfield, MO 63005
(636) 733-9004
Fax: (636) 733-9005
E-Mail: corninfo@ncga.com
Web: www.ncga.com

A federation of 46 affiliated state corn grower organizations actively representing the interests of producers of the nation’s top grain crop.
  Membership includes more than 32,000 growers in 48 states.  NCGA’s mission is to create and increase opportunities for corn growers.

The organization provides teachers with a downloadable web-based educational program, Corn in the Classroom that illustrates corn as a reservoir of energy and a renewable substitute for products made from expendable fossil fuels. Additionally, the NCGA website includes links to its affiliate state corn-growing organizations, many of which have online education programs. Also, The World of Corn, an annual resource publication, a statistical look at corn markets and trends, is available for download from the website. The publication, which is free up to 25 copies, can be requested by contacting the organization. Additional copies are $3.00 per copy.   85

National Council on Economic Education
1140 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10036
(800) 338-1192
Fax: (212) 730-1793
E-Mail: sales@ncee.net
Web: www.ncee.net

The National Council on Economic Education is a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating students in the principles of economics and personal finance. Visit our website or contact us for information on teacher resource manuals, student activity books, and curriculum development materials to assist educators in the K-12 classroom.

The following lessons are offered for a nominal fee. They can be reviewed on the website:

Economics and the Environment—Helps high school students understand the crucial relationship between activity and environmental protection. Activities include courses in environmental studies, economics, natural sciences, social issues, and global issues. Classroom-tested lessons give students insight into a variety of environmental issues. Students learn key concepts — how natural resources are used and why, at times, misused, and how future economic activity can provide for environmental protection, as well as for economic growth. Selected by World Wild Life and North American Association for Environmental Education as an exemplary resource to help teach about biodiversity.

Economics and the Environment EcoDetectives—Applying economic reasoning to environmental problems for middle school students. Students learn about protecting endangered species, recycling, and resource depletion. Students solve persistent environmental mysteries. Materials highlighted by California Integrated Waste Management Board and California Department of Education, together with the Acron Group.

Energy, Economics, and the Environment:  Case Studies and Teaching Activities for Elementary School—challenges upper elementary students to analyze energy and environment issues from an economics perspective.  Updated with current information, EEE gives teachers and students the knowledge and tools they need to analyze important energy and environment issues.  Students will develop a basic understanding of concepts relating to economics, energy, and the environment; learn effective decision-making skills; and be involved in meaningful activities. 

Energy, Economics, and the Environment:  Case Studies and Teaching Activities for High School—challenges high school students to analyze energy and environment issues from an economics perspective.  Updated with current information, EEE gives teachers and students the knowledge and tools they need to analyze important energy and environment issues.  Students will develop a basic understanding of concepts relating to economics, energy, and the environment; learn effective decision-making skills; and be involved in meaningful activities.

The Great Economic Mysteries Book—Students in grades 9–12 solve engaging mysteries about environmental issues, natural resources, recycling, waste management, and government issues.

The Wide World of Trade—Through trade simulations and activities, students discover how scarce resources are allocated in order to provide goods and services.  87

National Energy Education Development––The NEED Project

8408 Kao Circle
Manassas, VA 20110
(800) 875-5029
Fax: (800) 847-1820
E-Mail: info@need.org
Web: www.need.org

A national network of students, educators, and business, government and community leaders dedicated to the design and delivery of comprehensive, non-biased kindergarten through 12th grade energy education curriculum.

By meeting local, state, and national education standards, NEED programs provide students and teachers an opportunity to learn about energy through hands-on science, math, drama, social studies, art, and music.

Student leadership initiatives encourage students to work with their peers, teachers, family, and community to design energy education programming for their region. The curriculum package is a six- to nine-week unit and is widely adopted for use in the classroom.

Memberships are available to educators for little or no cost, based on availability of sponsorship, from NEED’s partners and sponsors. Participating educators receive the NEED Energy Kit with teacher guides to a variety of activities and a full portfolio of free items to complete their units based on their grade level. The materials include Energy Infobooks on the nation’s leading energy sources; curriculum guides that help teachers plan comprehensive units to include the science of energy, energy sources, electricity, efficiency and conservation; and many evaluation/assessment and reinforcement options. 
New this year is a process technology activity completed in partnership with the Center for the Advancement of Process Technology to help students understand oil and natural gas exploration, production and refining. 

An extensive selection of hands-on science kits to teach energy transformations, solar energy, energy efficiency, electricity, magnets, and hydrogen are available and often sponsored.

Workshops and conferences for teachers, students, and energy professionals are available throughout the year, and week-long summer training is offered annually. NEED’s website has resources to teach an entire NEED unit available in PDF and other formats.

The extensive curriculum, including Science Fair Projects, Transportation Fuels activities, Biodiesel and Ethanol curriculum, Hydrogen activities, energy efficiency for schools and more are available from NEED’s website, resource catalog, and at over 600 workshops each year.  NEED’s newsletter Energy Exchange and its career newsletter Career Currents are available on the website and via mail. 
For information about NEED Project programs, go to www.need.org. Also visit our Energy Information Administration partnership project, the EIA Kid’s Page, at www.eia.doe.gov/kids.   88

National Energy Foundation (NEF)

Resources for Education
National Office
3676 California Avenue, Suite A117
Salt Lake City, UT 84104
(801) 908-5800
Fax: (801) 908-5400
E-Mail: info@nef1.org
Web:  www.nef1.org

A nonprofit educational organization providing educational resources and training services to educators.

Major initiatives include the Igniting Creative Energy Challenge, a national competition where K-12 students use their creativity to express their ideas related to being energy conscious. Entries include original art, music, literature, computer graphics, multimedia presentations, science projects, etc. NEF is also a Rebuild America strategic partner, working with school districts, state energy offices, and other partners nationwide to help bring down energy usage and costs at schools across the country. NEF continues to produce new energy-related instructional materials for K-12 teachers. New items include posters titled Electrical Generation, Renewable Energy Sources, Exploring Natural Resources and Their Uses, Oil, High Performance Schools, and Energy Management in and around Your School. NEF provides a wide array of posters, learning activity guides, videos, and instructional music that focus on energy. Other new items available currently include learning activities guides titled Energy Fun, Energy Fundamentals, and Energy Action Activities. NEF also distributes instructional materials nationwide through a “fulfillment” program with the natural gas industry, and the Foundation continues to provide in-service training support to school districts in many parts of the country.   89

National Geographic Society

School Publishing
1145 17th Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20036
(800) 368-2728
Fax: (515) 362-3366
Web: www.ngschoolpub.org

A nonprofit organization.

Publishes supplemental curriculum materials for kindergarten through 12th grades on electricity, energy efficiency/energy conservation, environment, geosciences/earth sciences, recycling, and water. Materials include GeoKits (thematic, multimedia teaching kits); Windows on Literacy and Reading Expeditions nonfiction books; videos; atlases; PicturePack transparency sets; and PictureShow CD-ROMs. Free catalogs are available upon request at (800) 368-2728. Free lesson plans and resources, as well as additional information about products, are offered at www.ngschoolpub.org and www.nationalgeographic.com/education.  90

The National Hydropower Association (NHA)

One Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Suite 850
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 682-1700
Fax: (202) 682-9478
E-Mail: help@hydro.org 
Web: www.hydro.org

An association dedicated to building greater public awareness of the advantages of hydropower as our nation’s most plentiful renewable energy source.

Offers a variety of materials on the production of hydropower, hydro’s economic and environmental benefits, and the issues facing the hydropower industry. Posters and educational curriculum are available at nominal cost. An annual conference is held every spring. NHA works closely with the Hydro Research Foundation, the U.S. Hydropower Council for International Development, and other organizations dedicated to hydropower and other forms of renewable energy. Staff is available to answer specific questions and to help identify sources of additional information.   91

National Propane Gas Association (NPGA)

1150 17th Street, N.W., Suite 310
Washington, DC 20036-4623
(202) 466-7200
Fax: (202) 466-7205
E-Mail: info@npga.org
Web: www.npga.org

NPGA is the national trade association of the propane industry.

Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)
1140 Connecticut Ave., N.W., Suite 1075
Washington, DC  20036
(202) 452-8975
Fax: (202) 452-9054
E-Mail:  propanesupport@propanecouncil.org
Web:  www.usepropane.com

PERC promotes the safe, efficient use of propane as a preferred energy source. Fact sheets, consumer safety brochures with a scratch and sniff feature, coloring books, and industry safety videos are available online at www.propanecatalog.com. Additional information is available on both organizations’ websites.  Homeowners can compare the cost of energy prices on www.usepropane.com.  93


National Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Youth Programs
4301 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22203
(703) 907-5500
E-Mail: nreca@nreca.coop
Web:  www.nreca.org or www.nreca.coop

A service organization representing the nation’s more than 900 nonprofit consumer-owned cooperative electric systems, which provide electric service to more than 36 million people in 47 states.

NRECA publishes both a weekly newspaper and a monthly magazine covering electric co-op and industry issues. Congressional testimony, regulatory filings, press releases, and other public records are available online on the website at www.nreca.coop.  94


Nebraska Public Power District
Energy Education Team
P.O. Box 499
Columbus, NE 68602-0499
(402) 586-5960
Fax: (402) 586-5166
E-Mail: webeditor@nppd.com
Web: www.nppd.com

A public utility servicing the electric needs of its customers, with a chartered territory including all or parts of 91 of Nebraska’s 93 counties.


Provides educational services free of charge to schools and civic groups in the utility’s service area. Services include electrical safety assemblies, Louie the Lightning Bug presentations, classroom programs and speakers, films/videos, tours of power plants and other facilities, and literature for students and teachers in all grades. Also provides information on Nebraska Public Power District’s Environmental and Energy management/conservation issues. Materials are available upon request for groups and individuals in the utility’s service area.   98

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)
17 Columbia Circle
Albany, NY 12203-6399
(518) 862-1090, ext 3303
(800) 658-5753 or (866) NYSERDA, ext 3303
Fax: (518) 862-1091
E-Mail: tat@NYSERDA.org or Trogers@NEED.org
Web: www.GetEnergySmart.org

NYSERDA’s holistic approach to energy-efficient schools invests in students, teachers, staff and school buildings and vehicles. Our goal is to create energy-aware students, teachers and facility managers, while creating an efficient, healthy and safe learning environment.


The Energy Smart Students Program provides K-12 curriculum materials in energy literacy, energy efficiency at home and school, and energy conservation. Materials are classroom-tested and aligned with New York State Learning Standards. Training workshops introduce teachers to the lesson plans and curriculum; free curriculum is available to teachers attending the workshops. A summer conference trains teachers to be Energy Educators for the program. Teachers may register for workshops and also download free material from NYSERDA’s website at www.GetEnergySmart.org. Mini-grants for teachers are available along with a free program newsletter: Energy Smarts.

School Power...Naturally provided working photovoltaic and data collection systems to 50 New York schools. Solar data collected from these 50 schools can be used in conjunction with 60 interdisciplinary lessons for students in grades 5-12. Both the solar data and the lessons are free and available to everyone at www.SchoolPowerNaturally.org.
Energy Smart Schools provides objective technical and financial assistance to eligible K-12 schools in New York. NYSERDA assists New York’s school administrators and facility managers to build and maintain school buildings that provide a safe, healthy and energy-efficient environment for learning. More information is available at www.nyserda.org/programs/school/.  99


North Carolina Solar Center
Box 7401
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC 27695
(919) 515-7085
(800) 33NC-SUN (for North Carolina only)
Fax: (919) 515-5778
E-Mail: ncsun@ncsu.edu
Web: www.ncsc.ncsu.edu

The North Carolina Solar Center serves as the state’s clearinghouse for solar energy programs, research information, education and technical assistance.

The North Carolina Solar Center is affiliated with the College of Engineering at North Carolina State University. The Center seeks to advance the use of solar energy through information and education programs and services. The NCSU Solar House, which is the education headquarters for the Center, is open to the public and provides educational resources for teachers and students.  A computer displaying renewable energy CDs and other Solar Center resources is located in the Solar House demonstration and library area. Adjacent to the Solar House is the Alternative Fuels Garage, where ongoing research is being done on Photovoltaics, Hydrogen and Bio-Fuels. Our website provides a listing of our programs, workshops, special events, state and federal tax credits, fact sheets and other Solar Center resources.   102

Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA)
50 Miles Street, Suite 3
Greenfield, MA 01301
(413) 774-6051
Fax: (413) 774-6053
E-Mail: edu@nesea.org
Web: www.nesea.org

The nation’s leading regional education and advocacy association that aims to accelerate the deployment and use of renewable energy, green buildings, and energy efficiency. NESEA produces major events that inspire and motivate large numbers of people to get involved and make a difference. Focus is on the northeastern United States (from Washington, DC to Maine).


Offers educational programs and resources that enable teachers and students to explore the science, technology, and potential of low-polluting, environmentally friendly, and secure energy options such as renewably-produced electricity, clean transportation fuels, alternative transportation systems, and healthy, efficient buildings. Several free publications are available from the website or can be ordered for the cost of shipping and handling. These include three middle school lesson sets, Getting Around Without Gasoline, Getting Around Clean & Green, and Travel Solutions to Global Warming; a high school unit on alternative fuels, Cars of Tomorrow and the American Community; and several elementary-level resources, Choose Your Future Adventure Game, Trip Tally: Discovering Environmental Solutions, and Totally Tree-Mendous Activities.

NESEA also develops resources for other organizations. For example, a middle school science unit on transportation and global warming and lessons that use mini solar-electric panels for hands-on inquiry of scientific principals. Both can be accessed from www.nesea.org. In addition, NESEA runs educational programs for teachers and students as follows:
1.   Northeast Regional Junior Solar Sprint that invites middle school students to participate in a miniature solar car competition run by area coordinators from the mid-Atlantic, New England, and New York States;
2.  Tour de Sol: The Great American Green Transportation Festival, the clean-vehicle championship that invites high school students to build an electric or hybrid vehicle and enter the event and also invites students of all ages to take a field trip to the event and receive a guided tour of the vehicles; and
3.  training workshops, conferences, and summer institutes for teachers.  103


Ohio Energy Project (OEP)
670 Enterprise Drive, Suite A
Lewis Center, OH 43035
(614) 785-1717
Fax: (614) 785-1731
E-Mail: oep@ohioenergy.org
Web: www.ohioenergy.org

A nonprofit energy education organization whose mission is to promote an energy-educated society and to facilitate youth leadership through effective partnerships with schools, businesses, government, and communities. OEP provides the complete energy education picture through hands-on, minds-on activities for teachers and students.

With a philosophy of Kids Teaching Kids, OEP facilitates workshops for elementary and middle school students led by high school student teams. These workshops focus on current, interdisciplinary, unbiased energy information and hands-on, authentic activities. Other workshop opportunities include: teacher professional development workshops including four-day Energy Sources Tours of Ohio’s energy sites; customized energy education programs featuring the science of energy; and new activities covering fuel cells and solar and nuclear energy. 

An affiliate of the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project, OEP offers a free partnership for Ohio educators. This partnership provides energy education materials, access to most workshops, and periodic updates on OEP information.   108


Omaha Public Power District
Consumer Relations Department
444 South 16th Street, 3E/EP1
Omaha, NE 68102-2247
(402) 636-3751
Fax: (402) 636-3922
E-Mail: sjefferson@oppd.com 
Web: www.oppd.com

A public utility serving the electric needs of customers in eastern Nebraska.

Provides educational services free of charge to schools in the utility’s service area. Services include classroom programs and speakers, career planning information, films/videos, tours of power plants and other facilities, and literature for students and teachers in all grades. Also provides information on Omaha Public Power District’s Buddy Alert and Safetysaurus Programs. All materials are available upon request.   111

Polystyrene Packaging Council (PSPC)
1300 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 741-5649
Fax: (703) 741-5651
Web: www.polystyrene.org

The Polystyrene Packaging Council (PSPC) is a business unit of the American Plastics Council. PSPC represents the major resin suppliers of polystyrene and the fabricator companies that use the resin to manufacture polystyrene products. Working in concert with its global partners, the PSPC’s mission is to promote and defend the polystyrene industry by providing a forum to address issues of importance to the industry; to keep markets free by eliminating or amending anti-PS legislation/regulation; and to serve as the industry’s voice to select audiences and the general public.


Offers general information brochures on polystyrene and solid waste management, which are available online at www.polystyrene.org.  114

Propane Education & Research Council (PERC)
1140 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 1075
Washington, DC  20036
(202) 452-8975
Fax: (202) 452-9054
Web: www.usepropane.com

The purpose of the Propane Education & Research Council is to promote the safe, efficient use of propane as a preferred energy source. With the passing of the Propane Education and Research Act (PERA) in 1996 by Congress, the industry conducted a referendum among propane producers and marketers, who overwhelmingly approved the formation of the Council. Through the Council, the propane industry is committed to improve consumer and employee safety, to fund research and development of new and more efficient propane equipment, and to expand public awareness of propane and its many uses and environmental advantages. The direction of the Council is guided by several documents, including the Propane Education and Research Act, the Council’s Policies, Rules, and Procedures, By-laws, and Strategic Plans. These documents and all Council documents are located in the Resource Library, at www.propanecouncil.org. You can also visit www.usepropane.com for information on the many uses of propane. 

PERC develops a wide-range of materials for propane customers.  Samples of the materials PERC produces are available for teachers to use. Teachers can learn more at www.propanecatalog.com
Materials that may be of particular interest to educators are: Play it Safe Around Propane coloring book (item #0090), Be safe by Being Careful with your LP-Gas brochure (item #0008), Safety Tips for Users of Small Propane Cylinders brochure (item #0007), How’s Your Nose brochure (item #003120), Safe Grilling Tips bill stuffer (item #008501), Propane and Your Home: Understanding Propane Prices and Tips to Lower Your Energy Costs brochure (item # 8005), and 2005 Consumer brochure (item #008014).   115

Railroad Commission of Texas 
P.O. Box 12967
Austin, TX 78711-2967
(512) 463-7110 (Alternative Energy materials)
Fax: (512) 463-7292 (Alternative Energy materials)
E-Mail: dan.kelly@rrc.state.tx.us
Web: www.rrc.state.tx.us

A state energy agency that regulates the oil and gas, alternative fuels, and surface mining industries in Texas. The Commission serves Texans by: its stewardship of natural resources and the environment, its concern for personal and community safety, and its support of enhanced development and economic vitality.

Provides educational materials free to Texas teachers (kindergarten through grade 10). Materials for primary grades are available on the Commission’s website (click on “Kids’ World”). These materials include interactive activities for younger children on energy and safety at home, at school, and outdoors.

The Commission’s Alternative Energy curriculum supplement for 6th through 10th grade science is available on the Commission’s website (click on “Energy Curriculum”). Free workshops for teachers using Alternative Energy are available from the Texas State Energy Conservation Office at www.seco.cpa.state.tx.us.  116

Renewable Energy Policy Project (REPP)
1612 K Street, N.W., Suite 202
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 293-2898
Fax: (202) 293-5857
E-Mail: info2@repp.org
Web:  www.repp.org

REPP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating the use of renewable energy by providing credible information, insightful policy analysis, and innovative strategies amid changing energy markets and mounting environmental needs by researching, publishing, and disseminating information, creating policy tools, and hosting highly active, online, renewable energy discussion groups.

REPP supports the advancement of renewable energy technology through policy research. REPP seeks to define growth strategies for renewables that respond to competitive energy markets and environmental needs. Since its inception in 1995, REPP has investigated the relationship among policy, markets and public demand in accelerating the deployment of renewable energy, which include biomass, hydropower, geothermal, photovoltaic, solar thermal, wind and renewable hydrogen. The organization offers a platform from which experts in the field can examine issues of medium- to long-term importance to policymakers, green energy entrepreneurs, and environmental advocates.  117

Renewable Fuels Association

One Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Suite 820
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 289-3835
Fax: (202) 289-7519
E-Mail: info@ethanolrfa.org 
Web:  www.ethanolRFA.org

A national nonprofit association promoting domestically produced renewable ethanol as an alternative to imported energy sources.

Provides general information and an Industry Annual on ethanol, a clean-burning, renewable transportation fuel produced from agricultural feedstocks and wastes. Additional information is available free of charge by visiting the website or calling the number above.  118

San Diego Miramar College
Advanced Transportation Technology Center
10440 Black Mountain Road
San Diego, CA 92126
619-388-7673 
Fax: (619) 388-7905
E-Mail: gnewhous@sdccd.edu 
Web: www.transportationtech.com

The Advanced Transportation Technology (ATT) Center at Miramar College was initiated in 1996. It is one of ten centers throughout California dedicated to transforming the workforce in the rapidly developing, technology-driven transportation industry, while improving the environment and stimulating the economy. Such a transformation includes education and programs in transportation-related areas that are developed and provided to elementary, middle, and high school students.

At San Diego Miramar College, the ATT Center works to integrate new technologies and information on new fuels into the curriculum of the college’s diesel, aviation, and automotive programs, as well as working to integrate those programs with the academic offerings of the school. In turn, these programs are adapted to provide education to younger students in a variety of outreach activities and information. An example of this is our booklet Introduction to Alternative Fuels and Alternative Fueled Vehicles. This booklet is free upon request or can be downloaded from our website.  119

Science Screen Report (SSR) 
1000 Clint Moore Road
Boca Raton, FL 33487-2806
1 (800) ASK-INFO
Fax: 1 (888) FAX-3737
E-Mail: 2scott@ssrvideo.com
Web: www.ssrvideo.com

The award-winning videotape series made available to schools free of charge through corporate support.


Science Screen Report is an ongoing series of secondary and elementary videos that focus on the most recent developments in technology, chemistry, engineering, energy, medicine, and the environment. Produced since 1970, SSR is a proud participant in the National Science Foundation’s Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. SSR is designed to stimulate student interest in the challenges, opportunities, and rewards of pursuing science-related careers. The programs are used nationwide by more than 7,000 school districts. The donated materials become the permanent property of the school system. Available on VHS, DVD, or streaming video. Visit www.ssrvideo.com to request a corporate sponsor.  120

Science Service
1719 N Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20036
(202) 785-2255
Fax: (202) 785-1243
E-Mail: sciedu@sciserv.org 
Web: www.sciserv.org

The mission of Science Service is to advance the understanding and appreciation of science among people of all ages through publications and educational programs. In addition to our educational programs. Science Service publishes the weekly news magazine, Science News, and the online www.sciencenewsforkids.org.


Science Service administers three educational programs. The Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is a competition for students in grades 9 through 12. Students participate in their regional and/or state ISEF-affiliated fair. Two individual student projects and one team project of up to three students (per fair) are chosen to participate in the Intel ISEF. Participants are eligible for scholarships, scientific field trips, summer research internships, and equipment. The Intel Science Talent Search is America’s oldest and most highly regarded science contest for high school seniors. To be eligible students must submit an individually researched project to enter this science competition. From the 300 semifinalists, 40 finalists will be chosen to attend the Science Talent Institute in Washington, DC, where students exhibit their research at the National Academy of Sciences and compete for the top prize of a $100,000 four-year scholarship. Deadline for the 2006-2007 program is November 15, 2006.

The Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge is a national science competition for 5th through 8th graders. Students win a nomination at their local, regional and/or state science fair and are eligible to complete a written entry in the national competition. Four hundred semifinalists are chosen and announced in August and the finalists are announced in September. In October the finalists travel to Washington, DC, for an all-expense-paid trip to compete for over $60,000 in scholarships and trips. For more information, please visit our website at www.sciserv.org.   121

Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA)
805 15th Street NW, Suite 510
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 857-0898
Fax: (202) 682-0556
E-Mail: info@solarelectricpower.org
Web: www.SolarElectricPower.org

SEPA is a unique network of more than 100 companies, including 50 utilities and 25 solar companies that are sharing experiences, knowledge, and lessons learned about solar programs, policies, and technologies. If you are looking to expand your understanding about solar electric power and how it can be used by electric utilities and their customers, you’ve come to the right place.

SEPA’s mission is to facilitate the use and integration of solar electric power by utilities, electric service providers, and their customers. To achieve this mission, SEPA strives to:

1.   Provide tools to utilities and electric service providers supporting the use and integration of solar.

2.  Foster business-to-business networking.

3.   Share information on solar electric technologies, applications, and programs.

4.   Evaluate and report on policies, regulations, and legislation.

SEPA helps to establish standards for solar electricity systems and their connection to the utility grid, hosts cross-industry workshops, and manages educational and outreach campaigns. Publications include: Schools Going Solar, Volumes I & II: a guide to schools enjoying the power of solar energy; the SEPA Record, a solar energy newspaper about current projects and events in the industry; Community PV (CD-ROM) How you can use solar power, solar programs in North America, describes successful solar energy projects and includes a “solar town meeting” (available for a nominal fee); Solar Power––Making the Dream Real is a 10-minute videocassette tape (available for a nominal fee); 4.5 Megawatts & Counting: Technology and Business Perspectives on TEAM-UP; and Large and Small Solar Systems Cost Reports, detailing the costs of residential and large solar electricity projects installed as part of a Department of Energy and SEPA collaboration (available for a nominal fee).   124

Solar Energy Industries Association
805 15th Street NW, Suite 510 
Washington, DC 20005 
(202) 682-0556 
Fax: (202) 682-0559 
E-Mail: info@seia.org
Web: www.seia.org

A nonprofit national trade association that represents the photovoltaic, concentrating solar, and thermal manufacturers, distributors, installers, and all other solar advocating groups.

Up-to-date information on solar thermal and electric costs, market size, technologies, and performance available by phone or e-mail. 125

Steel Recycling Institute
680 Andersen Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15220-2700
(800) 876-7274
Fax: (412) 922-3213
E-Mail: sri@recycle-steel.org 
Web: www.recycle-steel.org

An industry association dedicated to promoting and sustaining steel recycling across the country.

Provides materials for primary, middle, and secondary school educators. Materials include: Nature’s for ME, a preschool teacher’s guide filled with nature-related interactive exercises; YES I CAN!, a video and teacher’s guide for grades 1 through 3; and Earth Cycles, a cross-age teaching program for grades 8 through 12 and grades 3 through 5. The guide outlines three hands-on activities: Roscoe’s Totally Cycled World, a middle school CD-ROM with interactive missions in science, language arts, math, and social studies; Cycles for Science, high school curriculum supplements for biology, chemistry, physics, and earth/life science; and a community volunteer activities guide to support the program.

Information and prices are available through order forms. Additional materials, such as activity sheets and a coloring poster, are available. Please indicate grade level(s) for which materials or order forms are needed.  127

The Wilds
14000 International Road
Cumberland, OH 43732
(740) 638-5030, ext. 2301
Fax: (740) 638-2287
E-Mail: lbusby@thewilds.org
Web: www.thewilds.org

The Wilds is a nonprofit organization working to advance conservation through education, science and personal experience.

With a remarkable 14-square miles of grassland, forest, lake and wetland habitats to explore, The Wilds can offer one of the most comprehensive conservation education programs in the region. The previously impacted landscape also presents an outdoor laboratory for ecology and ecosystem restoration like no other. Here students see the impacts of our lifestyles on the environment and yet can be instilled with a sense of hope for the future as they learn about the ways we can improve degraded habitats and get involved personally with wildlife and our shared environment. The wildlife research facilities, veterinary clinic, unique animal handling procedures, worldwide wildlife focus, and ‘out-in-it’ residential camps of The Wilds gives each student a holistic view of their responsibility for stewardship. The Wilds also prepares students to understand new technologies in the natural resource field and equips them to make wise decisions in the future use of our planet and its living resources.   128

Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS)
Two Brattle Square
Cambridge, MA 02238-9105
(617) 547-5552
Fax: (617) 864-9405
Web: www.ucsusa.org

The Union of Concerned Scientists is the leading science-based nonprofit working for a healthy environment and a safer world.  UCS combines independent scientific research and citizen action to develop innovative, practical solutions and to secure responsible changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices.


Established in 1969, we seek to ensure that all people have clean air, energy, and transportation, as well as feed that is produced in a safe and sustainable manner. We strive for a future that is free from the threats of global warming and nuclear war and a planet that supports a rich diversity of life. Sound science guides our efforts to secure changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices that will protect and improve the health of our environment globally, nationally, and in communities throughout the United States. In short, UCS seeks a great change in humanity’s stewardship of the earth. Materials for educators can be found at www.ucsusa.org/global_environment/global_warming/page.cfm?pageID=883. Reports and fact sheets can be downloaded from our website.   129

University of Illinois at Urbana—Champaign
School of Architecture — Building Research Council
1 East St. Mary’s Road

Champaign, IL 61820
(800) 336-0616 or (217) 333-7551
Fax: (217) 244-2204
E-Mail: jshiffer@uiuc.edu 
Web: www.arch.uiuc.edu/programs

A nonprofit information clearinghouse and research center.

Publishes 8, 12, and 16-page booklets on how to make homes comfortable, healthy, and energy efficient that are appropriate for homeowners and seniors in high school. BRC offers the following publications at a nominal fee: Home Inspection, which examines each home system—plumbing, electrical, etc.—and provides a checklist for buying a home; Lighting, which focuses on task, security, and general lighting; Energy Management, which outlines practical management plans for summer and winter; Insulating, which focuses on how to know what type and how much insulation is needed; Heating, which is about the various kinds of heating systems and how to select a system; Selecting Windows, which explains window options and energy savings by selecting wisely; and Moisture Condensation, which discusses how to keep moisture from making a home chilly and prone to water damage.

A free publications catalog is available upon request. A complete set of 27 booklets is available for instructors and homeowners. Bulk rates are available. A limited number of publications are available for viewing at the website in PDF format. Landscaping, passive solar house plans, noise control and a multitude of additional topics are also covered in our publications.  130

University of Washington—KidsZone
Jim Disbrow, IPT Chair
(540) 547-3140
E-Mail: jdisbrow22701@earthlink.net

Gregory J. Crowther
Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Washington
Box 352125
Seattle WA 98195-2125
(206) 290-8826
E-Mail: crowther@u.washington.edu
Web: faculty.washington.edu/crowther/KidsZone/index.html

The KidsZone is a destination for both teachers of science and young people with energy, science, and technology homework.


From the perspective of energy as a “unifying concept”, the KidsZone offers information in an array of learning styles, including kid-friendly features like personas, games, quizzes, contests, knowledge trees, and a history of the greatest events and people in science. For both teachers-without-science-teacher-training and full-time science teachers, the age-graded instructional materials, index and topics are hot-linked. Knowledge strands for different levels of development (in the Knowledge Tree portion) and integrating topics (e.g., watersheds) put the various strands of science into an organized perspective.  131

U.S. Department of Commerce––National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
NOAA Education Outreach Unit
1305 East West Highway, #1W514
Silver Spring, MD 20910
(301) 713-1208
Web: www.education.noaa.gov or www.NOAA-Outreach@noaa.gov

A Federal agency with programs that advance the Nation’s science education goals by expanding and enhancing the scientific competence of all students, teachers, and the general public.

Provides information free of charge to students, teachers, librarians, and the general public about the earth’s oceans and atmosphere, including the topics of endangered marine mammals, severe and hazardous weather, El Niño/La Niña, NOAA weather radio, coastal management, weather satellites, and global warming. Information about NOAA’s educational programs, like the Teacher at Sea, is also available from this office. Additional information can be found at www.education.noaa.gov.  133

U.S. Department of Energy––Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)
Division of Educational Programs
9700 South Cass Avenue
Argonne, IL 60439
(630) 252-4114
Fax: (630) 252-3195
Web: www.dep.anl.gov

A DOE-funded, multi-purpose national laboratory providing programs to promote science careers and improve science education.

Provides continuing programs for teachers as follows:
1.   The Argonne Community of Teachers, a local organization of teachers who have participated in Argonne programs in the past and who continue to work with the Laboratory to improve science education for schools in the Chicago area;

2.   The laboratory Science Teacher Professional Development Program provides simulated research opportunities and curriculum development and networking for twenty teachers during the summer. The program is of four weeks duration and held at Argonne National Laboratory; and

3.    NEWTON, The Science Teachers Bulletin Board, which offers a place where teachers and students can discuss education and ask questions of practicing scientists. The bulletin board is at www.newton.dep.anl.gov. Website for all three programs: www.dep.anl.gov. See section Science, Technology and Education - Precollege Programs.   134

U.S. Department of Energy––Bonneville Power Administration (BPA)
Community Education Program-DR-7
P.O. Box 3621
Portland, OR 97208
(503) 230-5341
Fax: (503) 230-4576
E-Mail: clbenson@bpa.gov
Web: www.bpa.gov/corporate/education/

Bonneville Power Administration is both an electric utility and a Federal agency within DOE. Established in 1937, BPA markets electric power from Federal dams and other energy resources in the Pacific Northwest.

BPA employs approximately 3,100 persons in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. The majority of the agency’s work is in the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area headquarters and control center. BPA works with several business, school, and government agency partnerships. Many employees volunteer each year for various programs.

Participates in a variety of education programs for K-12 in the BPA four-state service area. Programs include science competitions, mentoring and tutoring, environmental education, summer science camps, worksite visits, and others. Educational materials designed for K through 12th grade on the topics of electricity, energy efficiency/conservation, and fish and wildlife are loaned or given free of charge to teachers in BPA’s service territory (Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Western Montana). Educational resources include curricula, hands-on activities, storybooks, posters, and videotapes. The following link is to the BPA teachers’ resources: www.bpa.gov/Corporate/KR/ed/page6.htm.  135

U.S. Department of Energy––Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Information Center (EERE IC)
P.O. Box 43165
Olympia, WA 98504
(877) 337-3463
Fax:  (360) 236-2023
Web: www.eere.energy.gov/kids and www.eere.energy.gov/education

A DOE-funded energy information service responding to public inquiries on the use of renewable energy and energy conservation.


The EERE Information Center provides general information on DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Program. Information Center Staff direct the public to resources and publications available on the website at www.eere.energy.gov, which has easily accessible energy-related consumer information and an ordering catalog for publication requests.  137

U.S. Department of Energy––Hydrogen Program
1000 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20585
(202) 586-1885
Fax: (202) 586-9811
Email: christy.cooper@ee.doe.gov
Web: www.hydrogen.energy.gov

The DOE Hydrogen Program supports the President’s Advanced Energy Initiative and seeks to advance the vision of a hydrogen economy.


The program is working with the automotive and energy industries, universities, national laboratories, international partners, and others to overcome critical technical barriers to developing commercially viable, emissions-free hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and the infrastructure needed to support their widespread use.

The program integrates hydrogen-related activities in the DOE Offices of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; Fossil Energy; Nuclear Energy, Science, and Technology; and Science. Available educational resources, which are most appropriate for middle school and high school students, include teacher background information, lesson plans, hands-on classroom activities, and an animation to show how fuel cells work.

The program website also includes links to other hydrogen and fuel cell educational resources, as well as information about hydrogen and fuel cell programs at colleges and universities, for high school students interested in getting involved in the development of the hydrogen economy.   138

U.S. Department of Energy––Los Alamos National Laboratory
Science Education Program Office
P.O. Box 1663, MS M709
Los Alamos, NM 87545
(505) 667-8680
Fax: (505) 665-6871
E-Mail: angela_m@lanl.gov
Web:  http://education.lanl.gov/EPO/

A DOE-funded national laboratory.

Los Alamos National Laboratory offers elementary- through university-level educational programs for students, teachers, and the public. They include teacher programs, student programs, internships, and postdoctoral appointments. Topics include: educational technology, curriculum and resources, public understanding of science, and diversity programs. Some programs are national in scope, while others are regional or local. Each of the programs is described on our website listed above.

Available products include:

1.   Science at Home, a book of science experimental activities for elementary and middle school students and parents to complete together using commonly available materials. (The Billerica, MA 01862, phone (508) 667-8000, fax (508) 667-5706, toll free (800) 225-0248, the book was published in 1997 and its ISBN is 0-7609-0236-4);

2.   Hydrogen and the Materials of a Sustainable Energy Future, a notebook of experiments and demonstrations for teachers that were presented at the National Educator’s Workshop: UPDATE 96;

3.   Model Nets, a National Study of Computer Networking in K-12 Education and Model Nets Guide, a guide to implementing networking technology in K-12 education;

4.   Seventh Generation, Environment, Safety, and Health at Los Alamos National Laboratory: A Report to Our Communities; and

5.   Fuel Cells — Green Power.   139

U.S. Department of Energy––National Energy Information Center (NEIC)
Energy Information Administration
1000 Independence Avenue, S.W., EI-30, Room 1E-238
Washington, DC 20585
(202) 586-8800
Fax: (202) 586-0727
E-Mail: infoctr@eia.doe.gov
Web: www.eia.doe.gov and www.eia.doe.gov/kids/

NEIC is the information dissemination service of DOE’s Energy Information Administration, which is responsible for developing energy data, analyses, and forecasts that help enhance public understanding of energy issues.

Available free of charge is the Energy INFOcard, a quick reference providing the most recent annual domestic and international energy data; Energy Education Resources: Kindergarten through 12th Grade; a series of primers on topical energy subjects: propane prices, residential heating oil prices, residential natural gas prices, gasoline prices, greenhouse gases, global climate change, and the restructuring of the electric power industry; and a free mini CD-ROM business card. All products are available on EIA’s website, which also features the EIA Kid’s Page (www.eia.doe.gov/kids/); hundreds of links to other energy-related sites; an email subscription and notification service for EIA press releases; a series of energy watches, synopses, summaries, and briefs; an energy quiz; an energy calendar listing schedules for future EIA publications and other energy events; and EIA publications and databases covering the various energy sources.   140

U.S. Department of Energy––National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Office of Education Programs
1617 Cole Boulevard, MS 1713
Golden, CO 80401
(303) 275-3010
Fax: (303) 275-3076
E-Mail: Cynthia_Howell@nrel.gov
Web: www.nrel.gov/education

NREL is a Department of Energy national laboratory that develops renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and practices; advances related science and engineering; and transfers knowledge and innovations to address the nation’s energy, security, and environmental goals.


NREL’s Office of Education Programs develops and implements science programs that engage the young minds of our future leaders, scientists, and engineers encouraging all to use and develop renewable energy resources. In addition, NREL’s undergraduate internship programs connect research to science and technology education, which inspires students to explore sustainable energy solutions to meet our future needs.

NREL supports kindergarten through 12th grade science education and undergraduate research focusing on energy efficiency and renewable energy, including managing and supporting numerous local and national science programs for both students and teachers. Programs include an after school 4th grade science literacy program, middle school junior solar sprint/hydrogen fuel cell model car competition, high school science bowl, science teacher professional development, summer research programs for pre-service and practicing teachers, and assistance for students and teachers looking for information, project ideas, lessons, and reference materials on renewable energy and energy efficiency topics.  142

U.S. Department of Energy––National Renewable Energy Laboratory––Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC)
1617 Cole Boulevard, MS 1633
Golden, CO 80401
(303) 275-4000
Fax: ((303) 275-4415
E-Mail: webmaster_afdc@nrel.gov
Alternative Fuels Data Center Web: www.eere.energy.gov/afdc/
Clean Cities Web: www.eere.energy.gov/cleancities/

The Alternative Fuels Data Center, sponsored by the Department of Energy (DOE), provides information about the alternative fuels and vehicles and advanced technology vehicles, as well as regulatory requirements, refueling locations, emissions, idle reduction technology, fuel economy and fuel blends.

Provides implementation and technical information on DOE’s Clean Cities Program, alternative fuel vehicles, and advanced technology vehicles. Provides information and technical assistance to both technical and casual users about a broad range of transportation topics.   143

U.S. Department of Energy––Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI)
P.O. Box 62
Oak Ridge, TN 37831
(865) 576-8401
Fax: (865) 576-5728
Web: www.osti.gov

OSTI collects, preserves, and disseminates the scientific and technical information resulting from the Department of Energy’s (DOE) research and development activities, as well as environmental programs. The scientific and technical information produced through DOE and its predecessor agencies includes the bulk of recorded knowledge about nuclear energy as well as other energy and science disciplines related to DOE’s broad R&D missions.

OSTI provides access to energy, science, and technology information through publicly available Web-based systems, with supporting tools and technologies to enable information search, retrieval and re-use.  The Energy Citation Database (www.osti.gov/energycitations) offers over 2 million bibliographic records of DOE scientific and technical information from 1948 to the present, with links to full text when available.

The DOE Information Bridge (www.osti.gov/bridge) provides access to over 121,000 fully searchable, full-text technical reports documenting the results of DOE-sponsored research. The E-print Network: Research Communications for Scientists and Engineers (www.osti.gov/eprints) provides single query searching of over 750,000 manuscripts, scholarly papers, and other scientific documents residing on approximately 20,000 Web sites, as well as a deep Web search across 52 major e-print databases. DOE R&D Project Summaries (http://www.osti.gov/rnd) contains information on more than 22,000 active DOE-sponsored research projects. EnergyFiles (www.osti.gov/EnergyFiles), the Energy Science and Technology Virtual Library, provides single-query access to over 500 databases and Web sites containing information and resources pertaining to science and technology of interest to DOE, with an emphasis on the physical sciences.

OSTI also hosts the FirstGov science portal, Science.gov (www.science.gov), in partnership with 16 organizations within 12 Federal science agencies. Science.gov provides a gateway to over 1,800 Web sites and offers deep Web searching of 30 databases containing R&D information. OSTI’s entire line of electronic products may be accessed through its home page at www.osti.gov, where users may search multiple databases with one query.   147

U.S. Department of Energy––Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL)

Science & Engineering Education (S.E.E.)
P.O. Box 999, Mail Stop K6-63
Richland, WA 99352
(509) 375-2800
Fax: (509) 375-2576
Web: science-ed.pnl.gov/index.stm

A DOE-funded, multi-program national laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) puts science and technology to work to solve energy and environmental problems. PNNL focuses on research and development related to waste management, environmental restoration, global environmental change, energy, and national security.

Offers a variety of university and science programs that integrate research and education and support science education reform. Our education partnerships connect the human and technical resources of the Laboratory with students and teachers in elementary, middle, and high schools; technical/community colleges; and students and faculty at the university undergraduate and graduate levels. Provides opportunities for students and faculty to:

•   participate in hands-on science and technology research as it is conducted in a research laboratory;

•   participate in projects that investigate scientific and technological challenges; update technical skills and understanding, as well as renew enthusiasm for chosen scientific or engineering research; and

•   work with Laboratory scientists and engineers in an interdisciplinary team environment; and use state-of-the-art equipment not commonly found in most schools or colleges/universities.   148

U.S. Department of Energy––Western Area Power Administration (WAPA)

P.O. Box 281213
Lakewood, CO 80228
(720) 962-7423
Fax: (720) 962-7427
E-Mail: manion@wapa.gov
Web: www.es.wapa.gov

A DOE power marketing administration encompassing all or parts of 15 western states.

Provides contact points with WAPA’s customers regarding on-going energy educational efforts on conservation and renewable energy for students from kindergarten through grade 12. For information, call Randy Manion, Manager, Renewable Resource Program, (720) 962-7423 or e-mail manion@wapa.gov.   149

U.S. Department of the Interior––Bureau of Land Management (BLM) 
1849 C Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20240
(202) 452-5078 (Environmental Education)
Fax:  (202) 452-5199
Web:  www.blm.gov/

An agency responsible for managing over 261 million surface acres, and 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate.  BLM’s multiple-use mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the public lands. The agency manages recreation, wildlife habitat, cultural and historic sites, scenic and wilderness areas, wild horse and burros, livestock grazing, timber harvesting, and energy and mineral development.

Offers a variety of educational energy-related programs and materials. Visit the website for programs available in your area, as well as educational products and presentations.  150

U.S. Department of the Interior––Minerals Management Service (MMS) 
Office of Public Affairs
1849 C Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20240
(202) 208-3985
Fax: (202) 208-3918
Web: www.mms.gov/mmskids/

The MMS, part of the U.S. Department of the Interior, oversees 1.76 billion acres of the Outer Continental Shelf, managing offshore energy and mineral resources while protecting the human, marine, and coastal environments through advanced science and technology research. The OCS provides 30 percent of oil and 23 percent of natural gas produced domestically, and sand used for coastal restoration. MMS collects, accounts for, and disburses mineral revenues from Federal and American Indian lands, with Fiscal Year 2004 disbursements of approximately $8 billion and more than $143 billion since 1982. The Land and Water Conservation Fund, which pays for cooperative conservation, grants to states, and federal land acquisition, gets nearly $1 billion a year.


Provides K-12 educational materials related to energy, minerals, and the environment on America’s offshore public lands. Materials based on MMS science and research in geosciences; physical oceanography; engineering; marine biology; deep-sea ecosystems; marine archeology; and social sciences.

Materials include Ocean Energy, a resource and experiment booklet; Watts It To You?, a role-play on consumption, conservation, and renewable and nonrenewable energy sources; science-based educational posters and teacher companions; curricula based on real scientific application; inquiry-based classroom activities to promote critical thinking; and fun coloring activity pages. Most material is free upon request and/or available from the MMS Kids Page at www.mms.gov/mmskids.   151

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Headquarters Library, 3404T
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20460
(202) 566-0556
Fax: (202) 566-0562
E-Mail: public-access@epamail.epa.gov
Web:  www.epa.gov

The Headquarters Library provides research assistance to EPA staff. 


A limited amount of reference assistance is provided to the public about environmental issues and EPA programs. Members of the public are encouraged to submit their requests via e-mail to public-access@epa.gov.   152

Waverly Light and Power
1002 Adams Parkway
P.O. Box 329
Waverly, IA 50677
(319) 352-6251
Fax: (319) 352-6254
Web:  www.waverlyia.com

A municipal utility serving electric needs of the community.

Provides educational services free to educators within its service territory. Services include generating plant tours, classroom presentations, and purchased reference materials for kindergarten through grade 12.  156

Westinghouse Electric Company
Employee Communications and Community Relations
P.O. Box 355, Mail Stop 5-20
Pittsburgh, PA 15230
(412) 374-2092
Fax: (412) 374-3244
E-Mail: kendrolm@westinghouse.com
Web: www.westinghousenuclear.com

A company dedicated to providing high-quality products, services, technology, systems and management in nuclear energy.

Provides energy-related materials to all who are interested, especially to teachers and students who will make our energy decisions in the future. Materials available are: a simulated uranium fuel pellet; Nuclear Energy Basics booklet; Electricity from Nuclear Energy booklet; Nuclear Energy Glossary; and N-Vision Brochure. One copy of each booklet is available free of charge; however, there is a minimal fee for larger quantities. For more information, please contact Westinghouse Electric Company Employee Communications and Community Relations.   157

Wisconsin Public Service Corp. (WPSC)
700 North Adams Street
P.O. Box 19001
Green Bay, WI 54307
(920) 433-1002
Fax: (920) 433-5741
E-Mail: kpalmer@wpsr.com
Web: www.wpsr.com

Provides electricity, natural gas, and energy products to more than 499,000 customers in an 11,000 square-mile area of Northeast Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. In addition to our corporate headquarters in Green Bay, we operate fossil and hydroelectric generating plants and have 19 customer centers throughout our service territory.


Provides an array of FREE energy-related presentations, publications, and web links for kindergarten through grade 12 educators in the WPSC service area. The materials emphasize electric and gas safety, energy management, protecting the environment, and renewable energy. Some of the special features include teacher and student tours, scholarship information, career exploration opportunities, energy fairs, speaker’s bureau, teacher workshops, and electric car demonstrations. Contact WPSC for a complete list of educational offerings. Please visit our website at www.wpsr.com.   158

Women in Mining Education Foundation (WIMEF)
P.O. Box 260246
Lakewood, CO 80226
(303) 298-1535 (message only)
E-Mail:  wimef@womeninmining.org 
Web:  www.womeninmining.org

A nonprofit organization dedicated to educating students, teachers, and the general public about the importance of minerals.

WIMEF’s mission is accomplished through the development and distribution of hands-on classroom activities, games, and information, as well as hosting training workshops for teachers. Distribution is accomplished through booths at various conventions and meetings, direct mailings, the Internet, and workshops. A list of workshops can be found on our website. Many links to other earth science sites are available. Teachers who do not have Internet access can request free educational packets from the Women in Mining Education Foundation by sending their requests on school letterhead, indicating the grade(s) taught.  159

Xcel Energy
Community Affairs
800 Nicollet Mall–29
Minneapolis, MN 55402
(651) 748-3329 Electric Safety Demonstrations
(612) 215-4621 Energy Safety Calendars
(800) 880-8463 Nuclear Energy Speakers
(303) 308-6111 Renewables and Wind Energy Speakers
(303) 671-3806 Classroom Connection
Web:  www.xcelenergy.com

Xcel Energy, Minneapolis (formerly Northern States Power Company and New Century Energy), is a major combination electricity and natural gas company in the U.S., operating in 10 states—Colorado, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas and Wisconsin.


Xcel Energy provides FREE online energy education resources for grades 3–6 at www.xcelenergy.com (search for ‘education initiatives’). Energy Classroom (www.energyclassroom.com) includes games, activities and experiments on power sources, the environment, energy conservation, careers in energy and a virtual power plant tour. Other offerings include the Energy Safety Calendar and Art Contest and the Classroom Connection program for grades K–12 (available to educators in CO, TX, KS, NM, OK).  160