Energy Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Moderate
Setting: Indoor study, home activities
Best For: Scouts interested in energy use, environment, science
Hands-On Level: Low, Moderate
Eagle Required: No

When you work on the Energy merit badge, you learn how energy affects your daily life. You use energy when you turn on a light, charge a phone, heat a building, or travel from place to place. This badge helps you understand where that energy comes from and how it is used.

You will explore several forms and sources of energy. You will also look at ways to conserve energy and improve efficiency. These activities will help you see how small choices at home, at school, and in your community can reduce waste.

As you complete the requirements, you will use observation, research, and problem-solving skills. You will think about the costs and benefits of different energy choices. By the end, you will have a better understanding of how you can use energy responsibly.

The requirements for this merit badge were updated effective January 1, 2025.

Download the Energy Merit Badge Requirements

Energy Merit Badge Pamphlet

Energy Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Energy Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Energy merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Conservation
• Requirement 2: Energy Conversions
• Requirement 3: Efficiency
• Requirement 4: Home Audit
• Requirement 5: Waste
• Requirement 6: Charts
• Requirement 7: Energy Systems
• Requirement 8: Careers
• More Resources

Requirement 1a: Find an Energy Source

What You Need To Do

With permission from your parent or guardian, find an online source about energy use or energy conservation. Discuss the source with your merit badge counselor, including what interested you, what questions came up, and which ideas were unclear.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a blog, podcast, website, or article from a reliable source.
• Look for a source focused on energy use, energy waste, or energy conservation.
• Write down the title, author, website, and date.
• Pick two or three details that caught your attention.
• List any questions raised by the source.
• Write down words or ideas that were unclear.
• Bring your notes or a copy of the source to your counselor meeting.
• Be ready to describe why you selected this source.

Resources

• The Essentials of Energy (video)
• World’s Most Asked Questions: What Is Energy? (video)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout find a source written at an appropriate reading level.
• Ask open questions about the Scout’s reactions and questions.
• Let the Scout choose which details to discuss.
• Avoid turning the discussion into a quiz.

Requirement 1b: Revisit Your Energy Source

What You Need To Do

After completing Requirements 2 through 8, return to the source used for Requirement 1a. Discuss how the badge work gave you more information about the topics covered in the source.

Helpful Tips

• Read or listen to the source again.
• Review the notes you made for Requirement 1a.
• Compare the source with the activities completed for Requirements 2 through 8.
• Find details that are now clearer.
• Look for ideas connected to energy forms, sources, conservation, or efficiency.
• Write down any answers found for your earlier questions.
• Identify any new questions raised by the source.
• Prepare two or three examples to share with your counselor.

Leader Tips

• Ask the Scout to compare the first and second reviews of the source.
• Guide the Scout toward specific examples from the badge requirements.
• Allow the Scout to describe connections in their own words.
• Focus on growth in knowledge, not perfect answers.

Requirement 2a: Explain Energy Conversions

What You Need To Do

Choose three devices from the requirement list. Describe how each device uses energy and name the energy forms involved before and after the conversion.

Helpful Tips

• Energy conversion means energy changes from one form to another.
• A toaster changes electrical energy into heat energy.
• A greenhouse changes sunlight into heat inside the structure.
• A lightbulb changes electrical energy into light and heat.
• A bow drill changes mechanical energy into heat through friction.
• A cell phone changes stored electrical energy into light, sound, motion, and heat.
• A nuclear reactor changes nuclear energy into heat, then mechanical energy, and then electrical energy.
• A sauna changes electrical energy or chemical energy from wood into heat.
• An electric vehicle changes stored electrical energy into mechanical energy at the wheels.
• Use arrows to show each conversion, such as electrical energy → heat energy.
• Include all major energy forms used by each device.
• Prepare to describe each conversion to your counselor in your own words.

Resources

• Different Forms of Energy (video)
• Energy Transformations (video)
• How Does a Toaster Work? (video)
• How Do Greenhouses Work? Easy Explanation! (video)
• How Modern Light Bulbs Work (video)
• Primitive Technology: Cord Drill and Pump Drill (video)
• How Wireless Charging REALLY Works! (The Hidden Physics) (video)
• What Is Nuclear Energy? | National Geographic (video)
• ICE vs. Electric: The Future of Driving Compared (video)

Leader Tips

• Let the Scout select three devices based on personal interest.
• Use real objects, photos, or simple diagrams during the discussion.
• Ask the Scout to trace the energy from its source to its final use.
• Help correct missing steps without giving the full response.

Requirement 2b: Build an Energy Conversion System

What You Need To Do

Build a working system with at least two energy conversions. Show the system to your counselor and describe each step in the energy flow.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a project with simple and safe materials.
• A hand-crank flashlight changes mechanical energy into electrical energy, then light energy.
• A small solar fan changes light energy into electrical energy, then mechanical energy.
• A battery-powered motor can change chemical energy into electrical energy, then mechanical energy.
• A marble rolling down a ramp changes stored gravitational energy into mechanical energy.
• The moving marble can strike a bell and change mechanical energy into sound energy.
• Draw a diagram showing each part of the system.
• Label every energy form in the diagram.
• Use arrows to show the direction of the energy flow.
• Test the system before meeting with your counselor.
• Bring all needed parts unless the counselor approves a video or photos.
• Follow safety rules when using tools, electricity, heat, or moving parts.

Resources

• Solar Motor-Free Energy Motor (video)
• Solar Powered Toy Bell Ringer (video)
• How to Make a Simple Windmill for Free Energy – School Project | Functional (video)
• How to Make a Free Energy Using Water Wheel – Science Project Without Electricity (video)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout choose a project suited to available tools and skill level.
• Review possible safety risks before construction begins.
• Ask the Scout to point out each conversion while the system operates.
• Focus on the energy flow instead of the appearance of the finished project.

Requirement 3a: Identify the System Parts

What You Need To Do

Choose a common system where energy moves through several parts to create a useful result. Name the parts affected as the energy moves through the system.

Helpful Tips

• A system is a group of connected parts working together.
• Choose a system you see often, such as a car, refrigerator, furnace, bicycle, or electric fan.
• Start with the part where energy enters the system.
• Follow the energy through each major part.
• For a car, parts may include the fuel tank, engine, transmission, and wheels.
• For a refrigerator, parts may include the compressor, coolant, coils, and insulated cabinet.
• For a furnace, parts may include the burner, heat exchanger, blower, ducts, and thermostat.
• A simple diagram can show how the parts connect.
• Use arrows to show the direction of energy movement.
• Include only the main parts involved in the energy flow.

Resources

• Energy Transfers in Appliances (video)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout choose a familiar system with clear energy movement.
• Ask the Scout to trace the path from the first part to the final result.
• Use the real object or a diagram when possible.
• Keep the discussion focused on the main parts.

Requirement 3b: Name the Primary Energy Source

What You Need To Do

Name the main energy source entering the system. Identify the form of energy stored or supplied at the beginning.

Helpful Tips

• The primary energy source provides the energy used by the system.
• A gasoline car begins with chemical energy stored in fuel.
• An electric fan begins with electrical energy from an outlet or battery.
• A refrigerator begins with electrical energy.
• A gas furnace begins with chemical energy stored in natural gas or propane.
• A solar-powered device begins with light energy from the sun.
• A bicycle begins with chemical energy from food used by the rider’s muscles.
• Name the form of energy, not only the object supplying it.
• Use a phrase such as “chemical energy in gasoline.”
• Some systems may use more than one source, but identify the main source.

Leader Tips

• Ask where the system receives its energy.
• Guide the Scout toward the correct form of energy.
• Separate the energy source from the machine using it.
• Accept different examples when the Scout supports the answer.

Requirement 3c: Identify the Useful Outcomes

What You Need To Do

Describe the useful result produced by the system. Include the main task the system is designed to perform.

Helpful Tips

• A useful outcome is the intended result of the system.
• A car uses energy to move people or supplies.
• A refrigerator removes heat and keeps food cold.
• A furnace warms a home or building.
• A lightbulb produces light for seeing.
• An electric fan moves air.
• A water pump moves water from one place to another.
• Some systems have more than one useful outcome.
• Focus on the main purpose of the system.
• Describe the outcome in a clear sentence.

Leader Tips

• Ask what job the system performs.
• Let the Scout separate the main result from side effects.
• Use everyday examples to keep the discussion clear.
• Encourage a specific answer instead of a broad response.

Requirement 3d: Identify Energy Losses

What You Need To Do

Name the forms of energy produced by the system that do not help with its main task. Describe where these losses occur.

Helpful Tips

• Energy loss does not mean energy disappears.
• Lost energy changes into forms that are less useful for the system’s main job.
• Heat is a common energy loss.
• Sound is often an energy loss in engines and motors.
• Friction changes mechanical energy into heat.
• A car loses energy through engine heat, exhaust heat, sound, and friction.
• A refrigerator releases heat from its coils and gains unwanted heat through gaps in insulation.
• A furnace may lose heat through ducts, walls, windows, or exhaust gases.
• An electric motor may lose energy as heat and sound.
• Lower energy losses usually mean greater efficiency.
• Better insulation, lubrication, and equipment design can reduce losses.
• Include at least one clear energy loss for the chosen system.

Leader Tips

• Ask where unwanted heat, sound, or friction appears.
• Help the Scout separate useful output from energy loss.
• Avoid expecting exact efficiency calculations unless the Scout chooses to include them.
• Connect energy losses to simple ways of improving efficiency.

Requirement 4: Complete a 14-Day Home Energy Audit

What You Need To Do

Check how energy is used in your home and keep a log for 14 days. Record steps your family takes to reduce energy use, then discuss the results with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Start by listing the main ways your family uses energy.
• Include heating, cooling, lighting, cooking, hot water, appliances, and electronics.
• Use one page or chart for all 14 days.
• Record each action taken to save energy.
• Include actions taken by you and other family members.
• Examples include turning off lights, lowering the thermostat, or taking shorter showers.
• Record changes even when they seem small.
• Add the date beside every entry.
• Include any problems your family faced while trying to save energy.
• Look for actions your family could continue after the audit.
• Review the whole log before meeting with your counselor.
• Bring the log and your report to the discussion.

Resources

• Energy 101: Home Energy Assessment (video)
• Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Assessments (website)
• Do It Yourself Home Energy Audit Form (PDF)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout create a simple log before the audit begins.
• Check progress during the 14 days without completing the work for the Scout.
• Ask about patterns found in the daily entries.
• Focus the final discussion on real family habits and useful changes.

Requirement 4a: Track Home Energy or Transportation Fuel

What You Need To Do

Choose one of two options. Record the types, delivery, measurement, and cost of energy used at home, or track fuel use, mileage, fuel economy, and trips for a family vehicle.

Helpful Tips

• For home energy, check recent utility bills and fuel receipts.
• Electricity reaches most homes through power lines.
• Electricity is usually measured in kilowatt-hours.
• Natural gas reaches homes through underground pipes.
• Natural gas may be measured in therms or cubic feet.
• Propane and heating oil are often delivered by truck and measured in gallons.
• Firewood may be measured by the cord, bundle, or load.
• Record the current price shown on each bill or receipt.
• Include delivery charges or other fees when they appear on the bill.
• For the vehicle option, record the type of fuel used.
• Write down the starting and ending mileage.
• Record the miles driven for each trip.
• Include the reason for each trip, such as school, work, shopping, or activities.
• Find the vehicle’s miles per gallon on the dashboard or calculate it from miles driven and gallons used.
• Keep fuel receipts when possible.

Resources

• Use of Energy Explained – Energy Use in Homes (website)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout choose the option with the best available records.
• Show where units, rates, and costs appear on a utility bill.
• Protect private account numbers and personal information.
• Check the Scout’s math while allowing the Scout to complete the report.

Requirement 4b: Use Energy Resources Wisely

What You Need To Do

Describe ways your family can reduce energy use during daily activities. Include sustainable energy sources, reuse, and recycling in your discussion.

Helpful Tips

• Turn off lights when no one needs them.
• LED bulbs use less electricity than many older bulbs.
• Shorter showers reduce water use and the energy needed to heat water.
• Washing clothes in cold water can reduce energy use.
• Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads.
• Use lids on cooking pots to hold in heat.
• Use a microwave or toaster oven for small amounts of food when practical.
• Set computers, televisions, and game systems to energy-saving modes.
• Unplug chargers and devices that draw power when unused.
• Combine errands to reduce miles driven.
• Avoid fast starts and hard braking to reduce fuel use.
• Sustainable energy sources can continue to supply energy over a long period.
• Solar, wind, flowing water, and geothermal heat are common sustainable sources.
• Reusing an item keeps it in service longer and reduces the need for a new item.
• Recycling metal, glass, paper, and some plastics can reduce the energy used to make products from raw materials.
• Local recycling rules may differ, so check which materials are accepted.
• Donating clothing, tools, furniture, and electronics can extend their useful life.

Resources

• Save Energy (video)
• Environmental Footprint Calculator (website)
• Your Carbon Footprint (video)
• Renewable Energy 101 (video)
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (video)

Leader Tips

• Ask the Scout to connect each idea with a daily family activity.
• Guide the Scout toward changes the family can use in real life.
• Include both immediate actions and longer-term choices.
• Keep the discussion focused on practical energy savings.

Requirement 5a: Find Energy Waste and Suggest Solutions

What You Need To Do

Use a notebook to list five examples of energy waste in your school or community. Describe each example, suggest a way to reduce the waste, and include the possible benefits.

Helpful Tips

• Look for lights left on in empty rooms.
• Check for computers, printers, or screens left on when unused.
• Look for doors or windows open while heating or air conditioning is running.
• Check for outdoor lights left on during daylight.
• Look for dripping hot-water faucets.
• Watch for school buses or other vehicles left idling.
• Include a short description of where each example occurs.
• Give one practical solution for each example.
• Motion sensors can reduce lighting waste.
• Timers and automatic shutoff settings can reduce equipment waste.
• Weatherstripping can reduce heating and cooling loss.
• Less energy use can lower utility and fuel costs.
• Lower energy use can reduce pollution from power plants and vehicles.
• Better lighting and equipment controls can improve school and community buildings.
• A trade-off is a benefit gained while giving up cost, time, comfort, or convenience.
• New equipment may save energy but require money to buy and install.

Resources

• The Surprising Places We Waste Energy (video)

Leader Tips

• Walk through the school or community with the Scout when possible.
• Guide the Scout toward five different examples.
• Ask for a clear solution and benefit for each example.
• Include safety, cost, and convenience in the discussion.

Requirement 5b: Describe Changes and Resistance

What You Need To Do

Describe the routine, habit, or convenience changes needed for the five solutions. Include reasons people may resist each change.

Helpful Tips

• Turning off lights requires people to remember before leaving a room.
• Shutting down computers may add a few minutes at the end of the day.
• Closing doors and windows may change how a room feels.
• Lower thermostat settings may require warmer clothing.
• Higher cooling settings may make rooms feel warmer.
• Combining vehicle trips may require more planning.
• Reducing idling may change pickup and drop-off routines.
• Automatic controls may require new equipment and maintenance.
• People may resist changes that feel less comfortable.
• Some people may prefer familiar routines.
• Staff may worry about the cost of new equipment.
• People may doubt small actions will make a difference.
• Clear signs and reminders can support new habits.
• Simple routines are often easier to continue.
• Showing lower bills or energy use can support the change.
• A successful plan balances savings, comfort, safety, and cost.

Resources

• Actions for a Healthy Planet (website)

Leader Tips

• Ask the Scout to connect each solution with a specific routine change.
• Discuss honest reasons people may resist.
• Avoid treating resistance as laziness or poor behavior.
• Help the Scout suggest changes people could follow over time.

Requirement 6a: United States Energy Sources

What You Need To Do

Create a pie chart showing the main energy resources used in the United States. Tell your counselor where the data came from and describe the main ideas shown by the chart.

Helpful Tips

• Use current data from a reliable source.
• The U.S. Energy Information Administration is a useful source.
• Look for data on primary energy use by source.
• Common sources include petroleum, natural gas, coal, nuclear energy, and renewable energy.
• Make sure all sections of the pie chart add up to 100 percent.
• Label each section with the energy source and percentage.
• Add a title and the year of the data.
• Record the website, report title, and date accessed.
• Compare the largest and smallest sections.
• Check how much energy comes from fossil fuels.
• Look at the share supplied by nuclear and renewable energy.
• Use the chart to point out which sources supply most U.S. energy.

Resources

• U.S. Energy Consumption by Source and Sector (website)
• Everything You Need to Know About the Energy Flowcharts (video)
• Monthly Energy Review (website)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout find current data from a trusted source.
• Check the percentages before the chart is completed.
• Ask the Scout to describe the largest patterns shown.
• Keep the focus on what the chart reveals.

Requirement 6b: Energy From Other Countries

What You Need To Do

Create a pie chart showing the share of U.S. energy resources that comes from other countries. Cite the data source and describe the important ideas shown by the chart.

Helpful Tips

• Use data on U.S. energy imports and domestic energy supply.
• The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports energy imports and exports.
• Check the year listed with the data.
• Separate imported energy from energy produced in the United States.
• Use net imports if the source reports imports minus exports.
• Read the source notes carefully because methods may differ.
• Label both parts of the chart with percentages.
• Add a clear chart title.
• Record the source and date accessed.
• Check which imported fuels make up the largest share.
• Petroleum, natural gas, and electricity may be listed separately.
• Compare imports with exports when the data includes both.
• Describe whether the United States depends heavily or lightly on foreign energy.
• Use the same year of data throughout the chart when possible.

Resources

• Why Does the US Import Oil When They Export So Much? (video)
• US Energy Imports and Exports (website)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout separate imports, exports, and net imports.
• Review the data notes with the Scout.
• Ask how foreign energy affects supply and prices.
• Allow the Scout to describe the pattern in simple terms.

Requirement 6c: Energy Use by Sector

What You Need To Do

Create a pie chart showing the amount of energy used by homes, businesses, industry, and transportation. Cite the source and describe the main patterns.

Helpful Tips

• Look for energy use by economic sector.
• Residential means energy used in homes.
• Commercial means energy used by businesses, schools, hospitals, and offices.
• Industrial means energy used to make and process goods.
• Transportation includes cars, trucks, planes, trains, and ships.
• Use percentages from the same source and year.
• Label each sector and its share.
• Check whether electric power losses are listed separately.
• Some reports assign electricity use to the sector using it.
• Read the chart notes before copying the numbers.
• Compare which sector uses the most energy.
• Identify the sector using the least energy.
• Consider the fuels commonly used by each sector.
• Add the source name and year below the chart.

Resources

• Use of Energy Explained (website)
• Energy Consumption & Efficiency Data | Energy Information Agency (website)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout use a source with clear sector definitions.
• Check for double counting of electricity.
• Ask the Scout to compare the four sectors.
• Connect the chart with common daily energy uses.

Requirement 6d: Fuels Used to Generate Electricity

What You Need To Do

Create a pie chart showing the fuels and energy sources used to generate electricity in the United States. Cite the source and describe the main ideas shown.

Helpful Tips

• Use electricity generation data rather than total energy use.
• The U.S. Energy Information Administration publishes the U.S. electricity mix.
• Common categories include natural gas, coal, nuclear, wind, solar, and hydropower.
• Biomass, petroleum, and geothermal may also appear.
• Use net electricity generation data when available.
• Label each section with the source and percentage.
• Combine very small sources only when the source also groups them.
• Add the year because the fuel mix changes over time.
• Check which fuel produces the most electricity.
• Compare fossil fuels with nuclear and renewable sources.
• Compare wind and solar with older sources such as coal.
• Look for changes from earlier years when useful.
• Record the exact source below the chart.
• Make sure the percentages total about 100 percent.

Resources

• Total Energy: Primary Energy Consumption by Source (website)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout separate electricity generation from total energy use.
• Ask which sources are renewable and nonrenewable.
• Guide the Scout in finding two or three clear patterns.
• Avoid requiring a detailed history of every fuel.

Requirement 6e: World Energy Reserves

What You Need To Do

Create a pie chart showing the world’s known and estimated primary energy resource reserves. Cite the source and describe how cost can affect the use of nonrenewable resources and make other choices practical.

Helpful Tips

• Primary energy resources exist before conversion into electricity or fuel products.
• Common nonrenewable reserves include coal, petroleum, natural gas, and uranium.
• Reserve estimates depend on available data and current technology.
• Proven reserves can be produced with current methods and economic conditions.
• Estimated resources may include supplies not yet confirmed or practical to recover.
• Different energy resources may use different units.
• Use data already converted to a common energy unit when possible.
• Do not compare barrels, tons, and cubic feet without conversion.
• Record the report year and its definition of reserves.
• International energy agencies and geological surveys can provide useful data.
• Label each resource and its share of the total.
• Explain any categories left out of the chart.
• Higher prices can make difficult deposits worth extracting.
• Higher fuel costs can also make solar, wind, nuclear, or efficiency projects more practical.
• Lower prices may reduce interest in costly alternatives.
• Equipment, construction, storage, and transmission costs also affect energy choices.
• Cost is one trade-off along with reliability, pollution, safety, and available supply.
• New technology can change which resources are affordable to use.

Resources

• International Data (website)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout find data using a common unit.
• Review the difference between proven reserves and estimated resources.
• Ask how changing prices can affect energy choices.
• Keep the discussion focused on cost and practical alternatives.

Requirement 7a: Biomass Digesters and Waste-to-Energy Plants

What You Need To Do

Describe improvements that help biomass digesters or waste-to-energy plants produce more usable energy. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Biomass digesters break down food waste, manure, and other organic material.
• The process produces biogas containing methane.
• Improved tanks and controls can collect more methane.
• Better filters can remove water, sulfur, and other unwanted material from the gas.
• The cleaned gas can fuel an engine or enter a natural gas pipeline.
• Waste-to-energy plants burn trash to produce steam and electricity.
• New boilers and turbines can capture more energy from the same amount of waste.
• Heat recovery systems can provide heat for nearby buildings.
• Construction and pollution-control equipment can be costly.
• These systems can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
• Burning waste can release air pollutants.
• Filters and scrubbers reduce some harmful emissions.
• Gas leaks can create fire or explosion risks.
• Workers need protection from hot equipment, chemicals, and moving machinery.

Resources

• Flexible Clean Energy: Powering Tomorrow With Biomass (video)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout separate digesters from waste-burning plants.
• Ask for one improvement in each type of system.
• Include both benefits and possible problems.
• Keep the discussion focused on usable energy.

Requirement 7b: Cogeneration Plants

What You Need To Do

Describe how cogeneration plants produce more usable energy from one fuel source. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Cogeneration is also called combined heat and power.
• A normal power plant may release unused heat.
• A cogeneration plant captures some of this heat.
• The captured heat can warm buildings or support industrial work.
• One fuel source produces electricity and useful heat.
• Better heat exchangers can recover more waste heat.
• Controls can match heat and electricity production with demand.
• Cogeneration can use natural gas, biomass, or other fuels.
• Building the system can require a large first cost.
• Fuel savings can lower long-term operating costs.
• Using fuel more fully can reduce pollution per unit of useful energy.
• Fossil-fuel systems still produce carbon dioxide and other emissions.
• Hot pipes and high-pressure steam can cause burns.
• Regular inspection helps prevent leaks and equipment failures.

Resources

• The Combined Cycle Gas Turbine – the World’s Most Efficient Power Machine (video)

Leader Tips

• Use a school, hospital, or factory as an example.
• Ask the Scout to trace both electricity and heat.
• Discuss why the location must need both outputs.
• Include the cost of adding heat-recovery equipment.

Requirement 7c: Fossil Fuel Power Plants

What You Need To Do

Describe improvements that help fossil fuel power plants produce more usable energy. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Fossil fuel plants burn coal, natural gas, or oil.
• New gas turbines can produce more electricity from the same fuel.
• Combined-cycle plants use hot exhaust to create steam.
• The steam turns a second turbine and produces more electricity.
• Better boilers can operate at higher temperatures and pressures.
• Digital controls can improve fuel use and plant operation.
• Carbon capture systems can collect some carbon dioxide before release.
• New equipment and plant upgrades can be expensive.
• Higher efficiency can lower fuel costs.
• Burning less fuel for each unit of electricity can reduce pollution.
• Fossil fuels still release carbon dioxide.
• Mining, drilling, and fuel transport can damage land and water.
• Carbon capture uses extra energy and requires storage sites.
• Plants contain fire, explosion, steam, and electrical hazards.
• Workers need training and protective equipment.

Resources

• From Coal to Clean Energy: A Utility-Scale Milestone in New Mexico (video)
• How Forsite Development Transforms Retired Coal Sites Into Clean Solar Energy Hubs (video)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout compare older and newer plant designs.
• Ask how combined-cycle technology uses exhaust heat.
• Include pollution controls without treating them as complete solutions.
• Review worker and public safety concerns.

Requirement 7d: Fuel Cells

What You Need To Do

Describe improvements that help fuel cells produce more usable energy. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Fuel cells make electricity through a chemical reaction.
• Many fuel cells use hydrogen and oxygen.
• The main outputs are electricity, heat, and water.
• Fuel cells do not burn fuel in the same way as an engine.
• New materials can improve the reaction inside the cell.
• Better catalysts can reduce the amount of costly platinum needed.
• Improved membranes can increase power and last longer.
• Capturing the heat can raise total system efficiency.
• Fuel cells and hydrogen equipment can be expensive.
• Large-scale production may lower costs.
• A fuel cell produces little pollution at the point of use.
• The full impact depends on how the hydrogen is made.
• Hydrogen made with fossil fuels can create carbon emissions.
• Hydrogen made with renewable electricity can have lower emissions.
• Hydrogen can leak and catch fire easily.
• Storage tanks and fuel lines must meet strict safety rules.

Resources

• Fuel Cell Technology – the Future of Clean Energy (video)

Leader Tips

• Ask the Scout to include how the hydrogen is produced.
• Separate fuel-cell emissions from hydrogen-production emissions.
• Use a simple diagram of the reaction.
• Discuss safe storage and transport.

Requirement 7e: Geothermal Power Plants

What You Need To Do

Describe improvements that help geothermal power plants produce more usable energy. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Geothermal plants use heat from below Earth’s surface.
• Wells bring hot water or steam to the surface.
• The steam can turn a turbine and generate electricity.
• Better drilling can reach deeper and hotter rock.
• Improved pumps can move hot water more efficiently.
• Binary-cycle plants transfer heat to a second liquid with a lower boiling point.
• This design can use lower-temperature geothermal water.
• Used water can be returned underground through injection wells.
• Drilling and exploration create high first costs.
• Operating costs can be lower after a good site is developed.
• Geothermal plants usually produce low air emissions.
• Some underground fluids contain minerals or gases.
• Poorly managed wells can affect groundwater.
• Drilling and water injection can cause small earthquakes.
• Steam, hot water, and high-pressure equipment can injure workers.

Resources

• The Secret Behind Iceland’s Geothermal Energy (video)
• Should We Build A Geothermal Power Plant In Yellowstone? (video)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout compare steam and binary-cycle plants.
• Ask why location affects the cost.
• Include groundwater and earthquake concerns.
• Keep the discussion based on real plant operation.

Requirement 7f: Nuclear Power Plants

What You Need To Do

Describe improvements that help nuclear power plants produce more usable energy. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Nuclear plants use heat from nuclear fission.
• The heat produces steam that turns a turbine.
• New reactor designs may use fuel more efficiently.
• Improved cooling systems can remove heat more safely.
• Passive safety systems can work without outside power.
• Small modular reactors use smaller factory-built units.
• Longer-lasting fuel can reduce shutdown time for refueling.
• Better turbines can produce more electricity from the same steam.
• Building a nuclear plant has a very high first cost.
• Fuel costs are a smaller part of the total cost.
• Nuclear plants produce very low carbon emissions during operation.
• Mining and processing uranium have environmental effects.
• Used nuclear fuel remains radioactive for a long time.
• Storage and disposal sites require careful planning.
• Serious accidents are rare but can have major effects.
• Plants need strong security and trained workers.

Resources

• The Path to a New Era for Nuclear Energy (video)
• How Close Are We to Nuclear Fusion? (video)

Leader Tips

• Help the Scout separate plant efficiency from reactor safety.
• Ask about both daily operation and long-term waste.
• Include construction and shutdown costs.
• Avoid using fear or praise in place of facts.

Requirement 7g: Solar Power Systems

What You Need To Do

Describe improvements that help solar power systems produce more usable energy. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity.
• New solar cells can convert a larger share of sunlight into power.
• Tracking systems can turn panels toward the sun.
• Microinverters can improve output when some panels are shaded.
• Battery storage can save electricity for later use.
• Better forecasting can help match solar power with demand.
• Concentrated solar plants use mirrors to collect heat.
• Stored heat can produce electricity after sunset.
• Solar equipment requires an installation cost.
• Fuel is free after the system is installed.
• Panel and battery prices can affect the final cost.
• Solar systems produce no air pollution during operation.
• Manufacturing panels uses energy and raw materials.
• Large solar farms require land.
• Roof work creates fall hazards.
• Electrical equipment can shock workers or start fires.

Resources

• Solar 3.0: This New Technology Could Change Everything (video)

Leader Tips

• Ask the Scout to compare panels, batteries, and controls.
• Include both rooftop and large solar systems.
• Discuss output during clouds and darkness.
• Review electrical and roof safety.

Requirement 7h: Ocean Energy Devices

What You Need To Do

Describe improvements that help tidal, wave, or ocean thermal systems produce more usable energy. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Tidal systems use the movement of ocean tides.
• Wave systems use the up-and-down or back-and-forth motion of waves.
• Ocean thermal systems use temperature differences between warm and cold water.
• Stronger materials can resist saltwater corrosion.
• Improved anchors can keep devices in place during storms.
• Better turbines can produce power from slower water movement.
• Underwater cables carry electricity to shore.
• Remote sensors can report damage and performance.
• Building and installing equipment offshore is expensive.
• Repairs may require ships, divers, or special tools.
• Ocean energy produces no fuel emissions during operation.
• Devices can affect fish, marine mammals, and ocean habitats.
• Underwater noise may disturb wildlife.
• Moving water, storms, and waves create dangers for workers.
• Electrical equipment must be protected from saltwater.

Resources

• OTEC: The Huge Ocean Energy Source You’ve Never Heard of (video)

Leader Tips

• Let the Scout choose tidal, wave, or ocean thermal energy.
• Ask for details about the chosen system.
• Include marine life and maintenance concerns.
• Compare offshore costs with possible energy output.

Requirement 7i: Wind Turbines

What You Need To Do

Describe improvements that help wind turbines produce more usable energy. Include technology, cost, environmental effects, and safety concerns.

Helpful Tips

• Wind turbines convert moving air into electricity.
• Taller towers can reach stronger and steadier winds.
• Longer blades can capture energy from a larger area.
• Lighter materials can reduce stress on the turbine.
• Digital controls can turn the blades for better performance.
• Sensors can adjust blade angle as wind speed changes.
• Offshore turbines can use strong ocean winds.
• Improved weather forecasts can help power-grid planning.
• Turbines have construction and installation costs.
• Offshore wind usually costs more to build and maintain.
• Wind requires no fuel and produces no air pollution during operation.
• Roads and foundations can affect land and habitats.
• Turbines can harm some birds and bats.
• Careful location and turbine shutdowns can reduce wildlife deaths.
• Workers face risks from heights, electricity, moving parts, and storms.
• Ice or damaged parts can fall from turbines.

Resources

• Wind Power Advances: Cutting-Edge Technologies Shaping the Future (video)

Leader Tips

• Ask the Scout to connect blade size with energy output.
• Include both land-based and offshore systems when useful.
• Discuss wildlife effects and site selection.
• Review maintenance and worker safety.

Requirement 8: Explore an Energy Career

What You Need To Do

Identify three careers connected to energy. Choose one career and research the education, training, certification, experience, costs, job outlook, starting pay, advancement options, and possible career goals. Discuss your findings with your counselor and share whether the career interests you.

Helpful Tips

• Start with three careers connected to energy production, conservation, science, engineering, or repair.
• Choose one career for deeper research.
• Use career websites, colleges, trade schools, professional groups, or government sources.
• Record the name and date of each source.
• Find the required high school courses, college degree, or trade-school program.
• Check for licenses, certificates, apprenticeships, or safety training.
• Include work experience often required for an entry-level position.
• List tuition, tools, books, exams, and certification fees.
• Find a typical starting salary for your area.
• Check whether job openings are expected to grow, remain steady, or decline.
• Include possible promotions or advanced positions.
• Write down long-term career goals connected to the field.
• Compare the job duties with your skills and interests.
• Prepare a short summary for your counselor.

Energy Career Ideas

• Renewable energy technician
• Solar panel installer
• Wind turbine technician
• Energy engineer
• Electrical engineer
• Environmental scientist
• Utility line worker
• Power plant operator
• Nuclear technician
• Nuclear engineer
• Geothermal specialist
• Energy policy analyst
• Energy auditor
• Building efficiency specialist
• Petroleum engineer
• Natural gas engineer
• Electric vehicle technician
• Battery systems technician

Resources

• Careers in Energy and Natural Resources (video)
• 7 Nuclear Careers that Don’t Require an Engineering Degree (PDF)

Leader Tips

• Guide the Scout toward reliable career and salary sources.
• Encourage contact with a worker in the chosen field when possible.
• Ask the Scout to compare the career requirements with personal interests.
• Keep the discussion focused on realistic entry costs and career paths.

Science Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Science troop program feature helps Scouts explore how science impacts our world. Through hands-on activities, group investigations, and exciting Main Events, Scouts learn to ask questions, form hypotheses, and test their ideas. This program builds critical thinking skills and encourages curiosity about topics like chemistry, physics, and life science. Scouts can also engage with fun games, discussions about science fiction, and challenges that deepen their understanding of real-world science.

Participating in the Science troop program feature can connect Scouts to other opportunities, like earning the Energy merit badge. Exploring science helps Scouts appreciate the role of energy in our lives and how different technologies work. The program also supports advanced experiences, such as assisting with research or debating scientific theories. By combining practical experiments and creative problem-solving, Scouts gain skills that are useful for the Energy merit badge and future learning.

More Merit Badge Resources

Merit badges let Scouts explore a wide range of interests, from outdoor skills and science to hobbies and future careers. With more than 100 merit badges to choose from, Scouts can learn about sports, crafts, business, and more.

You don’t need to have advanced in rank to start earning merit badges, so any Scout can dive into topics that spark curiosity. For example, the Energy merit badge helps Scouts explore how energy works, its environmental impact, and ways to use it wisely.

Earning merit badges like the Energy merit badge gives Scouts hands-on experience and practical knowledge they can use in everyday life. Whether learning about nature, technology, or creative skills, merit badges help Scouts grow in confidence and discover new passions. Talk to your Scoutmaster to learn more about available badges and find ones that match your interests.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

Scouts BSA is a program for youth aged 11 to 17 that focuses on building character, leadership, and life skills. Scouts participate in activities like camping, hiking, and service projects while learning teamwork and responsibility through the patrol system.

They also explore new interests by earning merit badges, such as the Energy merit badge, which teaches about energy use and conservation. The program helps Scouts grow in confidence and prepare for the future.

Advancement is a key part of Scouts BSA, encouraging youth to learn new skills and progress through the ranks. Along the way, Scouts can earn badges like the Energy merit badge, which connects science and practical problem-solving. Whether through outdoor adventures, leadership opportunities, or service projects, Scouts BSA helps young people gain knowledge and develop the values of the Scout Oath and Law, preparing them for success in life.

What is the Energy merit badge about?

The Energy merit badge helps Scouts learn how energy is produced, used, and conserved. It teaches about different energy sources, how energy affects the environment, and ways to use energy more wisely.

What are the main requirements for the Energy merit badge?

Scouts complete activities like tracking energy use at home, exploring energy conversions, and learning about energy careers. They also create charts, do an energy audit, and discuss ways to save energy.

Do I need to know a lot about science to earn the Energy merit badge?

No, you just need to be curious and willing to learn. The badge introduces energy concepts in a way that’s easy to understand.

What kinds of activities are part of the Energy merit badge?

Activities include keeping a log of energy use, building a system that shows energy conversions, and creating pie charts about energy resources. You’ll also research careers and explore ways to save energy.

How does the Energy merit badge help Scouts?

It helps Scouts understand how energy works in everyday life. It also teaches practical skills like conserving energy, analyzing data, and thinking critically about energy choices.

What is an example of an energy system for the Energy merit badge?

An example is a solar-powered fan. The system converts sunlight into electricity with a solar panel, then the electricity powers the fan to create airflow.

Why is it important to save energy?

Saving energy lowers costs, reduces pollution, and helps protect the environment. Scouts learn about these benefits while working on the Energy merit badge.

What careers can Scouts explore for the Energy merit badge?

Careers include renewable energy technician, energy engineer, utility worker, and environmental scientist. Scouts can research these paths to find one that matches their interests.

Where can I find information to complete the Energy merit badge?

You can use websites like the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) or visit local energy facilities, such as power plants or solar farms. Your counselor can also provide guidance.

What do I learn about renewable energy in the Energy merit badge?

You’ll learn how renewable sources like solar, wind, and geothermal energy work. You’ll also explore how they reduce pollution and conserve natural resources.

The Energy merit badge teaches Scouts about the power that runs our world. It’s all about learning where energy comes from, how we use it, and how to save it. Scouts explore different energy sources like coal, solar, wind, and nuclear power. They also learn about the environmental impact of energy use and why renewable energy is so important.

This badge includes hands-on activities like tracking energy use at home, building a system to show energy conversions, and making charts to explain energy facts. Scouts investigate energy waste, suggest solutions, and learn how small changes can make a big difference.

Earning the Energy merit badge also introduces Scouts to energy-related careers. They explore jobs in renewable energy, engineering, and environmental science. Along the way, Scouts develop skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis.

The Energy merit badge helps Scouts understand how energy connects to everything they do. It’s a fun and practical way to learn how to conserve energy and protect the environment.