This holiday season, Kuressaare brings an innovative twist to its festive celebrations. While the town square’s traditional Christmas tree shines brightly, two smaller trees are illuminated in a unique way – powered by energy generated from power bikes. These special bicycles convert pedaling into electricity, creating a fun and interactive experience for the community.
Pedal Your Way to Christmas Cheer
Everyone is invited to try the power bikes and light up the Christmas trees using their own energy. Simply hop on, start pedaling, and watch as the lights glow brighter the faster you go. Two power bikes will be available at Kuressaare town square: one for adults and one for children.
The bikes will be ready for action from December 1, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
A Spark of Innovation and Sustainability
Ruttar Teär, an engineer at TalTech Kuressaare College and the creator of the power bikes, explains:
“The dynamo on the bike converts pedaling into electricity, which powers the Christmas tree lights directly. It’s 100% renewable energy – eco-friendly and clean!”
Saaremaa Mayor Mikk Tuisk shares his excitement:
“We’re thrilled to offer the community a chance to experience such a simple yet innovative solution. Creative ideas like this can inspire future initiatives, and we hope to see more projects like it in the future.”
Bringing Energy to Life
Sulev Alajõe, Director of the Saaremaa Energy Agency, emphasizes the broader impact of the project:
“The power bikes make energy production accessible and relatable. Generating electricity might seem complex, but this project shows it can be fun and straightforward. We’re also testing how user-driven energy production works in winter conditions.”
Beyond bikes, similar technology could be applied to other movement-based devices, such as treadmills, gym equipment, or even playground swings. These innovations could be particularly appealing in schools or community centers, making energy generation a natural part of everyday activities.
Olari Aavik, Chairman of the Saaremaa Entrepreneurs’ Union, adds:
“It’s important for people to realize that their movement can have a tangible, positive impact while they actively participate in the clean energy process.”
Join the Fun and Share the Moment
Capture your power bike experience and share it on social media using the hashtag #särtsurattad to spread the word about Kuressaare’s smart and eco-friendly Christmas solution.
A Community Effort
This project is a collaboration between TalTech Kuressaare College and the Estonian Islands Energy Agency, supported by Saaremaa Municipality, Kuressaare Culture Center, Saaremaa Entrepreneurs’ Union, Arens Ehitustööd, Kuressaare Lions Club, HOIA Homespa, and the European Union’s LIFE program.
