Source of Energy

One of the biggest problems we keep hearing about, at least here in the US, is the problem of over-population in our prison system. Even I won't go as far as suggesting a Matrix-like solution to tap into the energy of prisoners' bodies, but I do think we can and should use them to help produce energy. How about this... exercise bikes and treadmills and rowing machines and whatever else with generators attached. I don't know how much energy is a reasonable amount to expect one human being to produce in two or three one-hour sessions a day (that's for the scientists to figure out), but at least those in the system could be doing some good. Even if it's just a matter of covering the energy use of the prison itself, that would be something.

Feel free to discuss; I look forward to your comments.