From wind-solar energy educational demo system (WISE) to sustainable energy research facility (SERF)

The paper describes education, outreach, and research activities on residential use of wind and solar energy performed at Frostburg State University (FSU). A residential size wind and solar energy demonstration system named ldquoWISErdquo consisting of a 2-kW solar (PV) array and 1.8-kW wind turbine was constructed on FSU campus. A broad range of community outreach presentations have been offered to increase the public awareness of the residential use of wind and solar energy. The ldquoWISE Certified Education Programrdquo developed to provide instruction and training on design, installation, and maintenance of wind and solar PV generation systems was offered in spring and fall 2008. The WISE initiative led to construction of ldquoSustainable Energy Research Facility (SERF)rdquo on FSU campus. SERF will be an off-grid residential building supplied by clean renewable energy and house the FSU Renewable Energy Center to offer research, education, and outreach programs.