Green by Design

Clay High School Turbine Project

Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur presented the keynote address at the Clay High School Wind Research Facility dedication ceremony on April 21, 2008.  The groundbreaking ceremony was held at the high school’s wetland/soccer field complex.

The Wind Research Facility will consist of a Skystream 3.7 wind turbine atop a 45’ monopole tower.  The project, coordinated by Clay biology teacher Dennis Slotnick and science teacher Caine Kolinski, will consist of students collecting data on wind energy.

Clay High School is located 2.5 miles from Lake Erie, and is a desirable location for wind energy, with average sustainable wind speeds of 13.5 miles per hour.  The proximity of the lake also makes the area biologically sensitive.

“Besides the obvious question of wind resources and turbine efficiency, we will also study what threat, if any, turbines pose for bird and bat populations, “ said Slotnick.

In her keynote address, Congresswoman Kaptur discussed her long-term commitment and vision for expanding research and use of the wind resources on and around Lake Erie.

“It’s essential that students understand the pros and cons of wind energy so we can diversify Ohio’s energy portfolio in an environmentally responsible way, “ said Slotnick.

To fund the project, Slotnick and Kolinski secured a $10,000 grant through the BP A+ Energy grant program.  Matching funds came from Sunoco Toledo Refinery, along with additional funds from Buckeye CableSystems.

The Skystream 3.7 will be installed at the site by Green by Design later this spring.

Clay High School