ping

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green power @ ping

The Ping Center at Ohio University has installed on twenty elliptical machines the ReCardio System produced by the company ReRev. By retrofitting the elliptical machines, students will now be making alternative energy in a safe, fun, carbon-neutral and healthy manner. The kinetic motion of aerobic exercise is captured in an efficient and cost effective way and converted into renewable energy that feeds back into the local utility’s power grid. The ellipticals were self-powered and using only 10% of the energy created so with the ReCardio system the other 90% is being converted into electricity! A typical 30 minute workout produces 50 watt hours of clean, carbon-free electricity. That's enough electricity to run a CFL bulb-2 hrs. 30min; Incandescent bulb-45 min; Laptop-1hr; or Desktop computer-30 min.

Sarah Shore, Ping Center Fitness Director is shown producing green power!!

“ Installing the ReCardio System allows us to demonstrate both how energy is created and used. Students will gain knowledge of issues related to sustainability and energy conservation and will be provided an opportunity to act on this new found knowledge. I think it’s important to create an environment that actively models best practices regarding sustainability rather than just talking about it,” said Assistant Dean for Recreation and Wellness, Douglas Franklin.
The ReCardio System works with the building’s existing 120-volt wire pathways but will maintain a sub 48-volt limit, which is the protocol for phone lines.

Ping Center patrons will feel the benefits of this system. As environmental issues rise, Ping is ahead of the game. Franklin agrees, “The benefits will be intrinsic. The feeling that one is actually making a difference through the generation and preservation of energy should be positive.”