The Institute for Energy Studies (IES) at Western Washington University (WWU) is a multi-college collaboration that offers interdisciplinary BA and BS degrees to prepare graduates to advance the clean energy transition by addressing the science, technology, policy, business and economic aspects of energy systems.
The IES academic portfolio is unique in the country, especially at an undergraduate level. It is designed to prepare graduates to become leaders in the workforce of the Northwest's emerging clean energy economy, which emphasizes renewable energy technology, energy efficiency, smart systems, environmental mitigation and entrepreneurship. The WWU energy program is also unique in filling skill gaps in the field of energy efficiency, a growing regional business opportunity and global environmental imperative. Courses prepare students to conduct hands-on service projects such as “campus-as-a-lab” efficiency upgrades in campus buildings, as well as collaborating with cities, utilities and energy firms in the region. Students also explore solutions to balance resources as diverse as solar, wind, hydro, bio- and fossil-fuel energy with smart grids, smart buildings and plug-in vehicles.
Impact
Private support allows the Institute to directly support student learning through scholarships, travel to conferences, and provides research opportunities among other things. It also allows innovation in designing new classes, funds the purchasing of laboratory equipment, and connects Institute to the broader energy community by supporting symposia and visiting scholars.
