Project Clearinghouse

Solar Table

Sustainability Problem and Proposed Solution: 

Although our project does not solve any immediate energy or climate concerns, it increases visibility to the Carbon Fund as other sustainability initiatives on campus

Jump to: Contact | Project Description | Funding Sources | Metrics for Success | Results
Project Categories: 
Energy & Climate
Project Status: 
In Progress
Campus Organization: 
Carbon Fund
Affiliated Department, Unit or College: 
CHES
Project Location: 
On campus

Outside the Cowell Dining Hall


Stakeholder Contacts: 
Contact NameEmail AddressDepartment
Ellen Vaughan
elvaugha@ucsc.edu
Sustainability Office
Gustavo Nolazco
gus@ucsc.edu
CHES
Funding Sources: 
Carbon Fund

Project Description: 

The purpose of the project is to demonstrate UCSC’s commitment to a culture of sustainability and to show our support for the renewable energy industry and innovative products. It will also allow students to have more options and convenience when working outside. Having this table on campus allows students to actively and clearly participate in the utilization of solar energy and experience firsthand what sustainability means to the school. This would also bring more visibility to the Carbon Fund, as the table would have the CF logo, and be advertised as a CF project. A QR code on the table will direct users to a site with more information about the table, the CF, and UCSC’s renewable energy website (which I’m currently creating).

UCSC can join universities around the country purchasing such tables, and ours would not only incorporate solar power but showcase sustainable manufacturing as well, given that part of the table is made with recycled HDPE. As prospective students tour the school, the table will stand out as a sign that we’re at the forefront of sustainability, technology, and student wellbeing. The panels will not be connected to the campus grid so they will work during a power outage, providing a few students with power when the rest of campus is out.

Working outside and being surrounded by natural light has been proven to have positive effects on mental health and productivity, and this table would only increase accessibility to those trying to reap those benefits.

Metrics for Success: 

This is tricky, but the best metric is the table's foot traffic. If it's widely used and the QR code is scanned often, then the project is successful. Students have already shown support for the project, so it will be a success to see these interested students use the table.

Next Steps: 
Procuring the table and installing the installation
Result Categories: 
Behavior Change
Technology
Education/Outreach
Results: 

The project will educate students on the benefits and drawbacks of solar power, as well as bring them more information about the Carbon Fund. It'll also provide students with a great place to work outside and charge their phones if need be (which will be very useful during power outages).