Pedal Power Program
How much electricity do you need to have a great event? That is the question posed by the University of Oregon’s Pedal Power sound system. Pedal Power is a bicycle powered generator integrated with an energy efficient sound system that creates 100% off the grid, sustainable power for audio reinforcement. At Pedal Powered events, participants are encouraged to pedal custom bicycles in order generate the required electricity to power the event they are attending. By utilizing human energy as a limited and dynamic power source, event organizers and talent are put into a position to assess their power needs and generate creative solutions to best utilize the power available to them.The Pedal Power system was created at the University of Oregon by the Erb Memorial Union’s (EMU) Outdoor Program in 2009 with grant opportunities through Lane County Tourism and the Eugene Water and Electric Board. In 2011, Pedal Power was upgraded with an increase in electrical capacity as well as audio visual equipment and incorporated as a campus rental resource. This was accomplished through a collaboration of the EMU’s Outdoor Program, Scheduling & Event Services Department, and Cultural Forum in order to provide broader access to student groups, campus departments, and community members.