Fossil fuels, which include oil, coal and natural gas, are common, but environmentally damaging to the environment. When they are burned, they create greenhouse gases that get trapped in the earth's atmosphere, yet they are a major source of energy. They take millions of years to form and only under certain conditions. The formation of these fossil fuels can make excellent topics for students. The process by which they are extracted, such as surface mining, is another fine topic idea. You can also discuss the energy it takes to extract them.
Because fossil fuels are nonrenewable, we are slowly exhausting major sources of energy. This is why alternative forms of energy, particularly environmentally friendly means of energy, are increasingly being used. Windmills make an interesting project because you can relatively easily make a working model. Solar energy is an increasingly used source of energy; in your project be sure to discuss how it is collected and what it can be used for. Other sources of alternative energy are biomass, geothermal and hydropower.
Topics on how to conserve energy, especially around the house, make excellent energy projects. Researching methods to use energy efficiently is a practical and meaningful project topic at any age. Topics from energy-saving light bulbs to various types of caulking utilized around the house can be chosen for an in-depth research project. To present a broader view of energy conservation, list and explain all the things that individuals can do, such as turn down the heat whenever possible and not turn on the air conditioning.
Research in the energy field is leading to innovative technology. New types of cars that use alternative energy sources, such as electricity and even solar panels, to operate are an evolving topic. Vertical farming is a relatively new concept that has been proposed to help feed the earth's booming population. Building a farm in a skyscraper-like structure makes a striking model, and presenting it to the class will be educational, as most students have likely not heard of it before.