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At the Earthship house in Scotland, micro-electricity generators are used to provide all power needs. Each generator is powered by a renewable source of energy that doesn’t deplete materials from the environment. The solar generator uses the sun’s energy to generate 10% of the electricity needed. The wind turbine contributes 40% and the remaining 50% is generated by the hydro turbine. One drawback is that the power output is reduced when there is no sun or wind.

This clip could be used to develop students’ understanding of how energy is transferred and conserved within an ‘Earthship’ house. Students could work in groups to discuss the benefits of this kind of house, and also consider the drawbacks and possible risks involved in living in a house like this. They could then investigate how wind, hydro or solar energy could be used in their local community, and design an ‘eco’ house or school using the information they have gathered.