Description:
The student-created, student-led Renewable Energy Initiative is forward-thinking and proactive to promote a more sustainable living space for us now and in the future.

Executive Summary:

The student-created, student-led Renewable Energy Initiative is forward-thinking and proactive to promote a more sustainable living space for us now and in the future. The REI's operating budget comes from a student initiatived, student tax of $5/student/semester. The mission of the REI is to create and increase awareness of renewable energy and to offset the university's use of fossil fuels with clean, non-polluting fuel sources such as wind and solar.

What specific results have been achieved?

The REI has installed a 100,000 gal. liquid fuel tank for B20 biodiesel for the university diesel fleet, 3 pv projects, a 100kw wind turbine project and two solar thermal projects. Over the years, REI has partnered with the university physical plant, the Department of Technology, engaged students, and ASU-owned New River Light & Power on some of these projects.

In what ways are the efforts of this organization/individual unique and innovative?

The students decided for themselves that climate change and solutions are of utmost importance and created a self-induced tax to combat the issue and make a statement. Also, the students are the project managers of the individual projects. They get to choose which projects get funded and implemented.

How has the broader community been impacted?

The installation of NC's largest wind turbine here in the mountains of WNC has enabled it's community members to interact with and experience wind turbine technology firsthand. Further, the REI contributes to ASU's stewardship of our natural resources by not using fossil fuels, which creates a richer, healthier North Carolina.