About The Energy Center
History
The Energy Center at Appalachian State University was established in 2001 to conduct energy research and applied program activities in a multi-disciplinary environment. The Center, working through faculty, staff and students, has programs in the areas of energy efficiency, renewable energy technology, biofuels, policy analysis, forecasting, and economic development.
Mission
The Energy Center is committed to research, development, policy analysis and demonstrations in all areas of energy, with a stated mission to facilitate the work of faculty and students engaged in teaching, research and outreach activities associated with energy technologies, conservation and policy.
The Opportunity
Appalachian State University has long been a home for renewable energy, sustainable development and an environmentally aware campus community. Appalachian State is home to one of the nation's first degree programs in renewable energy technology, and remains one of a handful of schools in the world that offers a Masters-level degree in renewable energy technology. The University also hosts a number of other degree programs with related curricula including choices in building science, political science, economics, and other areas.
Students at Appalachian State are also very active in renewable energy. The Renewable Energy Initiative, a student-led effort, was approved by the student body in March 2004 with 82% of voting students approving a $5 increase in fees to support installation of renewable energy technology on campus. Another student-run program is the Appstate Collaborative Biodiesel Project, winner of the EPA's P3 Award: Student Design Competition for Sustainability [Photos].
