Franchising HPG

[verrip1]

Human Power Generation fascinates me. I think I've created a workable business plan around it.

I envision a franchise in which the franchisees operate 'gyms' where the customers work out on machines which generate power and is sold back to the power utility. With the 'gym' theme, you could draw the customers in. Tell them that the service includes 'personal trainers' who will 'motivate' them during their 'exercise sessions'. The equipment already exists! See these links:

www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-energy-generation-revolution-revolving-door

www.los-gatos.ca.us/davidbu/pedgen.html

Have a building with solar panels and the appropriate electrical metering and safety controls which will give the basic infrastructure needed for the scheme to pay off from the utility company. Charge customers a fairly stiff flat rate for joining, but a lower monthly fee with unlimited hours and actual discounts of the monthly fee based upon 'performance'. Spike the free Gatorade with some 'mild' stimulants and watch the money flow!

Of course, I would need some capital for one or two startup locations. And to pay a lawyer to get that rock solid customer indemnification statement I'll need.

What do you think?

[TD2K]

I'm not so sure. The first link talks about 'capturing' the energy spent in revolving doors. First, I don't think it takes that much energy to push a door around and that represents how much energy you could potentially recover. If you want to recover more, people will have to work harder and I'm not sure that would go over big.

People for the most part aren't capable of putting out that much power. The human powered planes all have to have very large wing areas and don't obviously fly very quickly because of the 'motor' limits.

[verrip1]

Motivation is the key. Motivation and numbers. Once you drive the engines to maximum output for a sustainable time period, there is success. For example, if the customer's output is below standard, they receive negative motivation.

[moneywhisperer]

Sweet Idea - maybe you could get some "bama-bucks" to help fund the start up!