MOSES LAKE - About 1,200 Basin fifth-graders recently learned that the sun can do pretty neat things.

Students participating in Grant County PUD's Solar Races used energy from the sun to power a couple solar ovens, which they used to cook hotdogs and make S'mores. They also raced solar-powered cars during the two-day event at Big Bend Community College.

PUD spokesperson Chuck Allen said the agency holds the event each year as a way to teach students about renewable energy sources in Grant County.

Students also participate in hands-on activities that teach them about wind and hydro-generated power, he said. REC Silicon in Moses Lake is also involved with the event, and teaches students about silicon production, said Allen.

"This all ties in with their STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) learning," he said. "It lets students take what they're learning in their science classes and apply it to real life."

Kate Lindholm, of the Moses Lake School District, said students are sent kits with parts to make their cars about two weeks before the Solar Races.

"They build their cars and spend about two weeks tweaking them and making sure they have the fastest car," she said.

A first, second and third place winner from each class is given a medal, said Lindholm.

"They all really want to win," she said. "It's a lot of fun for the kids."

Lindholm said classes from seven school districts participated this year. Students came from schools in Moses Lake, Ephrata, Quincy, Warden and other parts of Grant County, she said.

Andre Guzman, STEM Grant Director for Big Bend, said this is the first year the Solar Races were held at the college. They were previously held at the Grant County Fairgrounds, he said.

"I attended last year's Solar Race with my daughter at the fairgrounds," he said. "It seemed like a good idea to bring it to our campus."

Guzman said Big Bend administrators were on board with the idea.

Getting students exposed to STEM subjects early on will prepare them for higher education STEM learning, he said.

"It's like a pipeline. They go from middle school to high school and on to programs like the one here at Big Bend," he said.