Energy Perspective Part 2

again power perspective...part 2.

It's no secret that we (americans) waste energy. It's all around. From SUV to constantly running the TV, lights, water when we don't need to. So what's the real cost? What does it take to generate the power?

Everyone's had this idea at one time or another. Hanging out in the gym watching all those people pedalling and thinking: "I wonder if you could generate enough electricity to power the lights in the building." Well, I took two servo motors, slapped them on a bike and wired it up (pictures to follow). While the energy varies with performance generally I get about 18 watt-hours for one half hour at a nice pace. 18 freakin watt-hours, that's it! That's enough to light a traditional 60 watt lightbulb for just under 20 minutes. It'll power a compact fluorescent lightbulb for over an hour (I think 60 watt = 15 watt for CFLs). Granted I get a nice work out, however the light I use to illuminate the area uses more energy. I'm really not gaining anything. My point is that you can bust your ass for an hour and maybe get 50 watt-hours. Look at your electric bill and see what fraction this is. Perhaps it might be easier to turn off the light when you leave the room.