How to Use Thunderstorms as Alternative Energy Sources

Because of our modern lifestyles, we are quickly draining our planet's resources. In 2009, the demand for alternative energy sources is at an all-time high. Still in its experimental stages, the harvesting of lightning during a thunderstorm might be one of the most viable solutions. The wattage from one lightning bolt can power a light bulb for 20 minutes. However, with the installation of a system of coiled transformers, the original design developed by the inventor Nikola Tesla in 1891, one bolt of lightning could generate enough power for 30,000 homes for a day. Put into perspective, one average Midwest thunderstorm generates enough electrical output to power the entire United States for 20 minutes. With the conscious use of lightning harvesting with these transformers, the sky is the limit---literally.

Instructions

How to Win the Noble Peace Prize for Harnessing Thunderstorm Lightning for Alternative Energy Sources

1. Find an empty field. It should be away from houses, as well as any person, place or thing that might experience electrocution and damage from a potential lightning strike.

2. Install at least one lightning rod attached to a Tesla-inspired transformer.
   This is dangerous business---calling the lightning to find you. Be sure that your transformer has the capability to withstand great amounts of amperage from a lightning strike. It is recommended that you research Tesla's invention of one such transformer. For best results, model his ideas.

3. Install a storage station that will accumulate the power that the transformer receives.
   Ideally, this is when you get loads of amperage to power such things as lights, stereos, refrigerators and more. Again, this step is best developed after a healthy amount of research is done on the proper construction and safe practices of storing electrical power. The Internet offers many such links on the effects and shortcomings, as well as suggestions for a storage station construct.

4. 

   Leave the real investigative research and development of this remarkable, but as of yet unpracticed, activity to the professionals. Scientists, weather experts, energy experts and alternative energy consultants are working hard to solve issues that still remain to manifest this very viable alternative energy resource for our near future. If you have some valid skills that you would like to contribute to the research and development of these ventures, find the project and apply.

Tips & Warnings

• The wheel has been invented or, at the very least, experimented with---do not start from scratch. There are many examples of experiments that have already been done, parameters that have been set and global issues that stand in the way for anyone who is attempting to harness lightning power. Stay informed and keep informed.

• Even with "lightning catchers" installed in fields where there is a high rate of thunderstorms in that locale, it has been, up to this point, impossible to predict where lightning bolts will come out of the sky. Thus, until such solutions have been found, it is hard to guarantee that lightning and thunderstorms can become a viable source of alternative energy that we can rely on to provide substitute power. Lightning is a dangerous, powerful natural resource. Do not involve yourself with such an activity without adequate knowledge and protection. Playing with lightning can be fatal.

Resources

• Information on the Tesla transformer
• Article about the electric company that intends to be the first to harness lightning for energy