How do colleges and universities contribute to solar energy technology innovation?

Innovation: Colleges and universities have played an important role in solar energy technology innovation ever since the University of Delaware established the world’s first laboratory dedicated to photovoltaic research and development in 1972. Leadership: Leadership on clean solar energy can help colleges attract and retain talented people.

Is solar power making universities smarter?

Universities across the country are not only working to make their students smarter, but also to make their campuses smarter and more energy efficient. And solar power is a big way that these schools are accomplishing their goals.

How can a college benefit from a solar energy program?

Vocational Training: Engineering programs can provide students with pre-professional learning opportunities in design, production and oversight of on-campus solar farms. Proximity to Energy Demand: Colleges can install solar energy on rooftops, in parking lots and on marginal land, close to where energy is used.

Which schools have embraced solar power?

educational resource for students interested in renewable energy technologies. K-12 schools across the nation have also embraced solar power. The Solar Schools program, launched by the Department of En ergy, aims to install solar panels in 20,0 00 schools by 2020.

Why should schools invest in solar energy?

By adding solar into the generation mix, schools save money, utilize clean energy, and advance student understanding of renewable energy technologies. A bio for Elaine Ulrich in the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response.

Are solar panels a good idea for higher education?

And above the parking lot sits a canopy of solar panels that generates energy for the campus. For years, higher education institutions have been investing in clean energy projects like these, doing what they can to lower utility bills and combat climate change.