Clean Energy Education Prize

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has officially unveiled the first group of winners for its groundbreaking Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Clean Energy Education Prize Partnerships Track. In a significant move aimed at bolstering clean energy education and creating inclusive professional pathways, each of the 10 selected teams has been granted $100,000. This initiative seeks to spark collaborative ventures between HBCUs, other academic institutions, government bodies, and the clean energy sector.

Breaking New Ground in Clean Energy Education

At the heart of this initiative is the ambition to lay down the foundations for innovative programs that bridge the gap between HBCU students and the burgeoning clean energy industry. The awarded funds are earmarked for developing comprehensive educational and professional frameworks. These frameworks are intended not only to provide state-of-the-art academic resources but also to facilitate real-world experiences through internships and partnerships with industry leaders. The overarching goal is to ensure HBCU students are not just participants but leading contributors to the clean energy transition.

Partnerships for a Sustainable Future

The DOE’s selection process highlighted proposals that demonstrated a clear vision for creating impactful partnerships. These collaborations are expected to serve as catalysts for cutting-edge research, innovative educational programming, and student-led projects. By fostering connections between HBCUs and a diverse array of stakeholders, the DOE aims to create a more inclusive clean energy ecosystem. This initiative recognizes the critical role HBCUs play in nurturing a talented workforce that reflects the diversity of the United States.

Empowering the Next Generation of Clean Energy Leaders

This significant financial injection is seen as a pivotal step in empowering a new generation of clean energy leaders. By equipping HBCU students with the knowledge, skills, and professional networks necessary to excel in the clean energy sector, the DOE is helping to pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable future. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other sectors, highlighting the importance of targeted investments in education and professional development within underserved communities.

As the clean energy sector continues to grow, the need for innovative solutions and a diverse workforce has never been more apparent. Through initiatives like the HBCU Clean Energy Education Prize Partnerships Track, the DOE is not only investing in the future of energy but also in the future leaders who will shape this critical industry. The implications of this program extend far beyond the immediate benefits to the winning teams and their students; they represent a strategic move towards a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient clean energy future.

The winning teams are:

• Tennessee State University, Nashville, Tennessee
• Florida A&M University, Tallahassee, Florida
• Albany State University, Albany, Georgia
• Howard University, Washington, D.C.
• Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Georgia
• Dillard University, New Orleans, Louisiana
• Jackson State University, Jackson, Mississippi
• Southern University at Shreveport, Shreveport, Louisiana
• Morehouse College, Atlanta, Georgia

The HBCU Clean Energy Education Prize—a part of DOE’s American-Made Challenges—comprises two tracks. The Inspire Track is HBCU-hosted clean energy summer or academic break programs for K-12 and community college students. The Partnerships Track is focused on expanding curriculum and resources for undergraduate and graduate HBCU students.

A total prize pool of $6.75 million will be awarded over the three phases of the Partnerships track.

Phase 1 winners will be eligible to split a prize pool of $4,000,000. Based on the strength of their project progress at the conclusion of Phase 2 this summer. Phase 3 will follow and conclude in January 2025 when up to three winners will split a $1.75 million.

Source: Clean Energy Education Prize

https://www.energy.gov/eere/articles/doe