Southwest Texas Junior College

Southwest Texas Junior College Research Activities

Re-Energize Renewable Energy & Education Partnership

By: Southwest Texas Junior College

• Solar Research

Supervisor: Muraya Gonzalez

Researcher (students): 1. Hannah Gonzalez, Female,

                                             2. Sergio Porras, male, Hispanic

Southwest Texas Junior College are using solar energy technologies that uses the sun’s energy to light homes, produce hot water, heat homes and produce electricity. Using solar panels by allowing photons or particles of light, to knock electrons free from atoms, generating a flow of electricity. To collect data Southwest Texas Junior College will be comparing temperatures from the panel and the control panel at various times during the day. Future projects will consist of adding fans to the bottom of the frame to provide better air ventilation. Providing better air ventilation will make the solar panel and the surface the panel decrease in temperature.

• Water research

Supervisor: Muraya Gonzalez

Researcher (students): 1. Shannon Gammill, female, Caucasian

It is essential to conserve water and efficiently avoid waste by collecting rain water. Southwest Texas Junior College are using Rainwater systems can be used to grow a variety of plants. Collecting rainwater in rainwater systems is cleaner and clearer than most city water. Future research conducted by Southwest Texas Junior College are introducing green roofs that require very little up keep and can be used to help provide habitats for animals and grow plants.

• Wind efficiency research

Supervisor: Muraya Gonzalez

Researcher (students): 1. William Nichols, male, Caucasian

Southwest Texas Junior College are planning on conducting research using wind turbines. And are working on designing and constructing a more wind absorbent and efficient style of blade to be used on wind turbines.

• Biodiesel research

Supervisor: Muraya Gonzalez

Researcher (students): 1. Brandon Ramon, male, Hispanic

Alamo College plans on converting gas utility cart into a solar-electric vehicle that will showcase alternative energy technology and increase students’ interest in STEM careers. Future projects includes the SAC Year 2 REENERGIZE Research Project Hydrogen Fuel Cell Prototype Vehicle. Alamo College plans on Designing, constructing, and testing a highly efficient hydrogen fuel cell-powered prototype vehicle that will compete honorably in the prestigious Shell Eco Marathon in April 2016.