Idaho: the Future of Energy Research and Education
As one of the most innovative states in the nation, Idaho consistently ranks high in patents issued per capita by the U.S. Patent Trademark Office (currently we're number 2). Private industry drives this innovation, and is supported by universities and the Idaho National Lab, which in turn provide the intellectual capital to keep the alternative energy industry moving forward. Idaho is helping to develop the future of alternative energy, and here are just a few of the initiatives companies will be able to tap into.
Idaho National Laboratory
Renewable energy resources play a major role in the goal to advance alternative energy sources that have a smaller carbon footprint. The INL was designated as the lead nuclear research institution in the country, and is pioneering work in virtually all dorms of alternative energy. The Bioenergy Program embraces the idea of "Whole Crop Utilization" - converting plant byproducts such as cellulose stalks into cellulose-based ethanol. It is the lead national lab in geothermal sciences, conducts ongoing hydropower research to further diversify the nation's energy supply, and is working to develop techniques that can dramatically increase wind energy use in the Western United States.
Boise State University
Boise State University is proud to be one of six Wind Application Centers in the nation supporting Wind Powering America's Schools program. The Boise State College of Engineering has been involved in wind energy research since 2002, partnering with the U.S. Department of Energy, Wind Powering America, Bonneville Power Administration, and many other governmental and private organizations.
To learn about BSU's Wind Energy Research program, click here.
Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering
The Idaho State University has established an Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering (INSE) as a collaborative entity with the University of Idaho and Boise State University. Under the INSE's administrative umbrella, the three universities jointly focus on nuclear science and engineering education at the combined Idaho Falls campus coordinated by the Idaho national Laboratory.
Find out more about the Institute of Nuclear Science and Engineering Here.
College of Southern Idaho
Two new programs for the alternative and renewable energy industry will be implemented Fall Semester 2009: Environmental Technology and Wind Energy Technician. There is a specific need for wind turbine technicians to satisfy the need of growing wind power generation and manufacturing projects. The Environmental Technology program provides a broader curriculum in the development of a skill set to position someone for a variety of jobs that are emerging in the rapidly expanding green collar economy.
Take a close look at these programs here.