Renewable energy

Renewable energy is a crucial topic in our efforts to combat climate change. Let’s explore how bicycles can play a role in this context:

1. Bicycle Generators:
   • Imagine exercising for an hour every day and using that workout to power your home for twenty-four hours! Bicycle generators make this concept a reality.
   • When you pedal a stationary bike, it drives a flywheel that turns a generator, charging a battery. In an energy-efficient home (with LED lighting, for example), this setup could potentially meet basic lighting and powering needs.
   • The Hans Free Electric™ bike, developed by Manoj Bhargava, aims to bring power to the developing world while mitigating climate change. Over half of the global population lacks access to electricity, and this pedal-powered solution could make a significant impact ¹.
   • Teaching kids about climate change and energy efficiency by having them pedal-charge their devices is a creative way to put energy use into perspective.
2. RE:GEN Bike:
   • The RE:GEN bike captures power generated during a workout and stores it in a 100Wh battery called the Ohm.
   • After your ride, unhook the Ohm from the bike, and you’re ready to start charging electronic devices. Their motto: “Burn calories, not carbon!” ².
3. Stationary Bikes for Electricity:
   • Some gyms use stationary bikes that generate electricity. Here’s how they work:
     • An internal generator produces low-voltage AC from pedaling motion.
     • The voltage is boosted, converted to DC, and then transformed into a 60-hertz AC waveform.
     • Any surplus electricity can even go back to the power grid ³.
4. Electric Bikes (E-Bikes):
   • E-bikes emit less carbon dioxide (CO2) than conventional bikes or cars.
   • According to a study, e-bikes emit only 22 grams of CO2 per kilometer, while cars emit 271 grams per kilometer.
   • E-bikes can also be charged using renewable energy sources, further reducing their environmental impact ⁴.

So, whether it’s pedaling to power your home or riding an electric bike, every effort counts in our journey toward a more sustainable future! 🌱🚴‍♂️