Build a Solar Powered Clubhouse

Build a clubhouse that is solar powered

My older boys are a huge fan of the Dangerous Book for Boys.  A few weeks ago, my first born called my dad and asked, “Grandpa, can we build a tree house over Christmas break?”  Well, if it wasn’t for the 2 feet of snow in the Seattle area from December 18-25, we just might have drawn up some plans for the kids’ dream.  And why not make it a solar powered clubhouse, so that there can be lights and other electrical items to use?

Turns out that it is easier than you might expect.  And how fun to use the experience to teach basic carpentry skills along with renewable energy lessons.

In Binghamton, NY, a child got what many would say is a dream come true.  His family built a solar powered clubhouse for him.  Kyle Tompkins (with help from adults) built a tree house with solar panels that can generate 175 watts of energy – complete with a battery back-up and a solar inverter.  ETM Solar Works provided the hardware for the solar powered clubhouse.

In this video, a basic tree house/clubhouse is built.  If you know how to install solar panels, your children’s get-away can have electrical power without having to hook up the structure to the grid (and, importantly, without increasing your utility bill).  You’ll be the hippest, greenest family on the block:

Solar Powered Clubhouse - clean, green fun

Solar powered clubhouses are not just for children, though.  Earlier this month, Inhabitat published an article about Lulu Organics, which created a sustainable tree house in the upper New York State area.  For about $12,000, you can have a clubhouse that is powered enough to double as both a playroom and a spare guest room.  Sounds like a dream to me!  I would love to spend the night snuggled in the trees and (yes, its true), away from my gracious hosts.

Want to see more?  Check out this site from the Solar Living Institute that features alternative structures.  For the ultra tech-savvy, there are some eco-treehouses created by MIT and Tel Aviv University.

If you are serious about creating a solar powered clubhouse, there are many websites that can guide you along the way.  There is no better way to show your children how to use some handyman tools and also power the structure with renewable solar energy.  Have fun building your special hide-away for your kids, and enjoy a super lesson in solar power along the way!

Tags: eco-tree house, solar powered clubhouse, tree house