Electricity From Vegetables – Children Build Potato Batteries

On Sunday, Forschungszentrum Jülich once again hosted its “Open Day”. In addition to exciting insights into current research, a colourful programme of hands-on activities awaited visitors, especially the younger ones.

12 September 2025 – How can electricity be generated from a potato? Children explored this question at the “Open Day” of Forschungszentrum Jülich on Sunday, 7 September 2025, in the Helmholtz Institute Münster (HI MS) area. Under the guidance of battery researchers, they built simple potato batteries, connected cables, and lit up small LEDs. Along the way, they learned how electrical energy is generated and stored.

Research Fun

The experiment was part of the research rally: the children were allowed to measure for themselves how much voltage a potato provides, thus getting closer to solving the rally question. Curiosity, experimentation, and amazement were the focus, bringing science to life.

Exchange and Insights

While the children were tinkering, many adults took the opportunity to talk to scientists. Models and animations provided a clear overview of battery research and future prospects for energy storage. In addition, schoolchildren and students were able to find out about training and career opportunities.

Further information on Open Day can be found here.