Renewable Energy for Kids: Fun Facts About Solar and Wind

Renewable energy is one of the most exciting topics in science right now, and children absolutely love it. Clean energy from the sun, wind, and water? Giant turbines taller than Big Ben? Schools powered entirely by solar panels? What's not to love!

Here are some of our favourite fun facts about renewable energy for kids, perfect for sparking curiosity in the classroom or at home.

First things first: what IS renewable energy?

Renewable energy is energy that comes from sources that won't run out, like the sun, the wind and moving water. Unlike coal, oil and gas, it can keep being used again and again.

☀️ Solar Power Facts

• The sun sends more energy to Earth in ONE HOUR than humans use in an entire year. Mind. Blown.
• Solar panels work even on cloudy days. They just need light, not direct sunshine.
• The world's largest solar farm is in China and covers an area bigger than 100,000 football pitches!
• Some schools are already powered entirely by solar energy, including schools that have been featured in our content!

Watch our Sun Powered School video to see solar energy in action.

🌬️ Wind Power Facts

• Wind turbines can be as tall as a 40-storey building, and their blades spin at up to 320 km/h at the tips!
• A single wind turbine can power around 500 homes for a year.
• The UK has some of the best wind conditions in the world and is one of the global leaders in offshore wind energy.
• Wind energy produces zero pollution. The only thing it releases is clean air!

⚡ Electricity Facts

• Electricity travels through wires at nearly the speed of light: 186,000 miles per second!
• The National Grid in the UK carries electricity from power stations to our homes and schools. It stretches for thousands of miles!
• Electric cars produce no exhaust fumes, and if charged with renewable energy, they're almost entirely clean.

Our Sparktacular Journey! video takes children on an electrifying adventure following electricity from power station to plug socket.

💚 How can children help with renewable energy?

1. Switch off lights and devices when not in use. Saving energy is just as important as making clean energy!
2. Ask a grown-up if your home or school could switch to a green energy supplier.
3. Build a mini wind turbine or solar oven as a class experiment. It's easier than you think!
4. Walk, cycle, or take the train instead of going by car to reduce your carbon footprint.

For more energy-themed lessons, videos, podcasts and activities, head here.

Renewable Energy FAQs