Oregon State University
IN-3: Innovation 3

OSU Solar Trailer The OSU Solar Trailer is a portable trailer that captures and stores solar energy. Its purpose is to demystify and promote alternative energy systems, specifically photovoltaics. The device is used to power outdoor events on campus and in the community such as OSU's Earth Week activities, concerts, the Energy Trust of Oregon Better Living Home Show, Oregon State Fair, the Da Vinci Days festival and Oregon Country Fair. The SSI provided project funding in addition to the over $20,000 received in product donations and discounts (RJH Enterprises, Outback Power, Smith Glass, MK Battery, Wattsun, Abundant Solar, Freebird Body and Paint). Design specifications: * 1.8 kW solar array * 4,000 Amp hours battery storage (approximately six hours at full load, not including charging capacity) * Two grid interactive inverters capable of outputting 7.2 kW (60 Amps @ 120 Volt or 30 Amps @ 240 Volt) * Dual axis sun tracker * Expandable, fold out array * Mechanical lift moves array into sun tracking position The Trailer is also available for non-OSU groups to rent and use at their events. The Trailer was featured at the Oregon State Fair and has appeared there for the last two years. It has also been used to power electric vehicles on OSU's campus, and in 2009 powered a Tesla Roadster owned by a visiting actor in OSU's Theatre Arts Department. The Solar Trailer has been one of OSU's most visible and effective renewable energy outreach tools and because of its visual appeal, has reached "non-choir" audiences extremely effectively. The OSU Sustainability Office and Student Sustainability Initiative have begun more strategic targeted deployment at events like Dad's Weekend, the Homecoming football game, graduation and other non-sustainability related events in order to reach these audiences that might not otherwise have an interest in renewable energy.