Driver Hopes to Bring Solar Power to Indy 500

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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowAn INDYCAR driver has launched a campaign that would utilize solar power on the racing grid. Stefan Wilson’s #ThinkSolar initiative aims to spotlight the uses of solar energy by having a solar-powered pit crew in the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500.
Wilson says while he doesn’t think solar power could be used to run an IndyCar instead of gasoline just yet, he does think solar power could have other uses. He says solar energy could be used to power electronics on pit lane and in the garages, among other areas at racing venues.
Wilson adds the technology might allow for adding a solar panel on the race cars to run certain electronics. He says he wants to bring the idea of solar energy to a new audience and the Indy 500 is the perfect avenue.
"If we are able to demonstrate solar at the race, it might inspire people to think about how they’re using energy, where that energy is coming from and potentially inspire them to think about installing solar themselves," said Wilson.
Wilson says he hopes to have the proper funding in place by mid-to-late March, after which it would be difficult to incorporate solar power into his team’s efforts. He says discussions are in the works which could help him reach his goal of bringing the #ThinkSolar campaign to the Indy 500.
Wilson adds he would love to have Indiana solar companies come on board to promote solar energy. He recently partnered with the Colorado-based American Solar Energy Society for the campaign.
The racing industry is no stranger to solar energy. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is home to the largest solar farm at a sports facility. The nine-megawatt farm produces enough electricity to power nearly 2,700 homes in the Speedway area.
Click here for more information on Stefan Wilson and the #ThinkSolar campaign. You can also check out the video below:
Wilson says he is looking for companies that want to reach a new audience.