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Learn about NREL's research and development of renewable fuels and electricity that advance national energy goals to change the way we power our homes, businesses, and cars.

Photo of two wooden boxes with green handles lay side-by-side with their lids open. The box to the left is lit up with seven stoppers showing; the box to the right has not been assembled for testing yet.

This portable laboratory tests algae for its ability to produce hydrogen and could one day be distributed to high schools across the country.
Credit: Futurefarmers

Lunchbox Lab Helps Students Test Algae for Hydrogen

A "lunchbox" that turns high school students loose on algae may help solve the nation's energy challenges. At least that's the intent of an amazing learning tool called the Lunchbox Lab that gives students the power to examine strains of algae to see if they can produce hydrogen. Researchers at NREL and Futurefarmers designed and built the first Lunchbox Lab, which is now on display at New York City's Museum of Modern Art. Full story


Learning About Renewables: Get basic information about renewable energy for consumers, homeowners, and busiensses, including activities for students. More.

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