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Human-Powered Electricity Generation as a Renewable Resource

Author

Listed:
  • Michael Carbajales-Dale

    (Clemson University)

  • Benjamin Douglass

    (Clemson University)

Abstract

Energy and human's ability to transform energy into useful work has been the cornerstone of the development of civilizations. Throughout the majority of human existence, we relied solely on metabolic energy derived from plants and animals. In only a few centuries, society has almost completely transformed, from relying on somatic energy to become almost entirely dependent on fossil fuels. The combustion of hydrocarbon energy resources has had detrimental impacts on our environment, which has initiated a push for clean energy. This research study explores the metabolic energy output of humans, specifically within an exercise facility, to evaluate the feasibility of electrical power to be sustained from human-powered energy. Two rowing workouts were evaluated and then compared to solar photovoltaic as an alternative renewable energy. The result of the study demonstrates that 40 members of various physical abilities can collaboratively provide 3–5% of the gym’s average daily electricity demand if converted at an efficiency of 64%. The cost of converting the rowing machines resulted in a 33-year payback period.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Carbajales-Dale & Benjamin Douglass, 2018. "Human-Powered Electricity Generation as a Renewable Resource," Biophysical Economics and Resource Quality, Springer, vol. 3(1), pages 1-10, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:bioerq:v:3:y:2018:i:1:d:10.1007_s41247-018-0036-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s41247-018-0036-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Sterrer, Wolfgang, 1993. "Human economics: A non-human perspective," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 7(3), pages 183-202, June.
    2. Ugo Bardi, 2016. "What Future for the Anthropocene? A Biophysical Interpretation," Biophysical Economics and Resource Quality, Springer, vol. 1(1), pages 1-7, August.
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