The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the winners of the 2023 Geothermal Collegiate Competition, a challenge that allows college students to gain experience in the renewable energy industry and develop real-world geothermal solutions. The competition offers cash prizes to the winning teams, as well as funding for community events where they can present their projects and discuss geothermal energy.
Team GeoTribe from the University of Oklahoma took first place in the Technical Track for their design of a geothermal heating and cooling system for the Osage Nation’s greenhouse in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. The system aims to support native food sovereignty by maintaining a constant year-round growing temperature. Columbia University and Princeton University won first place in the Policy Track for their economic analysis of a proposed ocean-based closed-loop geothermal system in the Native Village of Elim, Alaska. This system could recoup costs in as little as 14 years and save residents over 2.3 million gallons of fuel oil and 70 million pounds of wood over 30 years.
The competition also introduced the Policy Track for the first time this year, which required teams to analyze the regulatory environment and economic feasibility of a proposed geothermal system. The second-place teams in both tracks will receive a $6,000 cash prize.
Jeff Marootian, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, commended the winning teams for their innovative solutions and their commitment to shaping a clean energy future. The DOE is impressed by the caliber of projects brought to the competition and believes that the ingenuity displayed by these students provides an exciting glimpse into the possibilities of clean energy.
Geothermal energy offers a reliable and clean source of heating and cooling, operating 24/7. By harnessing the Earth’s natural heat, geothermal systems can provide sustainable and cost-effective solutions for communities across the country. The Geothermal Collegiate Competition not only encourages students to explore the potential of geothermal energy but also highlights its importance in achieving a clean energy future.
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