Media Releases

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Good Things Are Happening
EDMONTON CHRISTIAN NORTHEAST SCHOOL UNVEILS GREEN PROJECT

On Thursday, April 29, at 11:20 a.m., Edmonton Christian Northeast School will unveil their new solar wall and greenhouse to staff, students and the community. The project came to life after the school received a $10,000 grant from British Petroleum for an alternative energy project to be built for the Grade 4, 5 and 6 students.

The solar wall greenhouse project includes a large heat collecting wall [solar wall] which is connected to the greenhouse base. A sandbox base with weeping tile funnels the hot air from the wall to the sand where the heat is retained and the heat from the sand will fill the greenhouse at night when the temperature drops. The fans which push the heat through the enclosed system run on electricity generated by the solar panels that generate 16-30 volts. The fans run on direct current so when the sun shines they are pushing and pulling air through the system efficiently.

Teacher and project manager, Carolyn Nieuwenhuis says, "The greenhouse solar wall system will serve to extend the growing season in the greenhouse during the school year and it will help to educate students about alternative energy sources. Through hands-on experiences, the solar wall and greenhouse will teach the students about plant growth, electricity and alternative energy sources, wetlands, trees and forest. " She adds, "The educational potential is tremendous as students are engaged in a rich and stimulating environment."

The first project in Grade 5 will involve developing a small pond in the greenhouse to house native wetland plants. The Grade 5 class will also be leading class tours in the upcoming weeks which will include an explanation of the entire system.

Further information:
Carolyn Nieuwenhuis
Teacher and Project Manager
Edmonton Christian Northeast School
5940 - 159 Avenue
780-408-7942