System

The projects system is based on a quick and clear feedback on energy-use.
From data on C-storage in woodland the average CO2 absorption-capacity of a single, medium-sized tree per day was calculated to be 0,059 kg CO2.
From data on CO2 emission in relation to electricity production it was calculated that the average daily CO2 absorption of a tree is equal to
* the production of 0.1 kWh electricity on fossile energy.
* the emission of CO2 on burning 0,033 m3 of natural gas.
* the emission of CO2 by driving 250 meters in a car.

In this project the feedback is made possible through pre-payment electricity-meters from SIEMENS.
When a tree is handed in, a code is given to upload the meter with 0.1 kWh. When the use of electricity exceeds the upload, power turns off.
This can happen after a few minutes (all lights on, electric cooking, electric boiler, washing- and dishwashing machine, heater), after hours (keyboard, radio) or in between.

Because all eight activity spots have their one meter, students can experience the effects of their own choises and activities directly and review their actions when necessary.
Beside an individual responsability there is a clear common responsability: when all trees are used, the party is over!

For some tasks students can use the electricity provided by a solar panel and a small wind-mill, or the hot water from a solar-heater. These energy can be used as long as the sun shines and the wind blows. But as in reality, energy generated in this way is (still) limited.

This project is designed and produced by Het Groene Wiel, the Wageningen EE-centre.
Financial support on this project comes from different companies interested in sustainable energy use and from local governments.
Costs of project design and production were approximately US$ 40000
Annual costs are about US$ 30000 (transportation, maintenance and the salary of EE-executives centres that work with this program on their local EE-centre).
The project is done by about 3500 students pro year.