Análisis de viabilidad de un proyecto de aprovechamiento de energía de fuentes no convencionales en gimnasios de Medellín y su área Metropolitana

Abstract

Everyday activities such as physical exercise generate kinetic energy, yet few people realize that this can be transformed into electrical energy. Whenever people walk on a treadmill, pedal a stationary bicycle or workout on an elliptical machine, their very movement uses their mechanical power to create kinetic energy. The same power that is used for physical conditioning could be used in new ways to great advantage. The vast amounts of kinetic energy that people create during exercise is largely wasted. Instead, it could be captured, channeled and converted using applied concepts and technologies based on distributed generation, in which small-scale electrical power storage and generation is used on-site. The purpose of this study is to evaluate a business model that takes advantage of non-conventional energy sources as an alternative electrical power source in gymnasiums. The project would implement a system of distributed generation powered by gym clients’ kinetic energy as a means of providing electricity self-sufficiency. The outcomes would reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions, generate major economic benefits, and promote sustainability. This project has been developed by applying the methodology for the preparation and evaluation of ONUDI projects, including field and industry studies; market, technical and administrative studies; legal and environmental research; and financial evaluation. This extensive preparation demonstrates the viability of the project and its likelihood of success.