Beaverton – November 03, 2026 -- Vernier Science Education has launched the Vernier Energy Counter, an $85 standalone device that gives students a digital reading of the total energy, in joules, produced by a KidWind wind turbine or solar panel in a 30-second test.

Single-button test removes computers and multimeter math from KidWind challenges

Students connect a turbine or panel to the counter, press one button and read the result. The process needs no computer, no accompanying software and no multimeter calculations. In KidWind challenges, students design, build and test turbine models to generate maximum power, and the counter lets them compare those designs directly.

Counter handles inputs up to ±12 V and ±400 mA with a built-in 30 Ω load

The device has a digital display of total energy output and a built-in 30 Ω load. Its source inputs accept potentials of up to ±12 V and currents of up to ±400 mA. A rechargeable battery lets students test more than 100 KidWind turbines and solar panels, multiple times each, without recharging.

Vernier offers two free investigations on blade pitch for teachers

Teachers can access two free lessons: Investigating Wind Energy, Lesson 06: Blade Design: Pitch, and Wind Energy Explorations, Lesson 05: Blade Variable: Pitch. Students test different blade pitches, measure energy output and use the data to identify the highest-yielding design.

Vernier CEO Jill Hedrick said the tool helps students interpret results and improve their designs, while preparing them for more advanced data-collection technology later.

Product works with Vernier's KidWind line and carries a five-year warranty

The Vernier Energy Counter is compatible with the KidWind product line sold by Vernier. It is backed by Vernier product support and a five-year limited warranty.