The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced in a press release last week the distribution of $60 million in funding for its largest-ever cohort of university-based Industrial Assessment Centers (IACs), which assist small- and medium-sized manufacturers in reducing their carbon emissions and lowering energy costs, while training the next generation of energy-efficiency workers.
One such IAC has been based at LSU in Baton Rouge. “Through this program, LSU engineering students will be able to gain incredible real-world experience – bolstering their skills for a potential job while helping to bring down energy costs for Louisiana’s manufacturers, reducing emissions and increasing efficiency,” says U.S. Representative Garret Graves. “This is a win-win-win for our students, workforce, and South Louisiana communities.”
The new cohort of IACs at 32 universities will focus on improving productivity, enhancing cybersecurity, promoting resiliency planning, and providing trainings to entities located in disadvantaged communities. The cohort will also engage in a new pilot project to expand to the commercial building market.
As part of the pilot, selected IACs will partner with community colleges and technical programs to train diverse students and professionals to conduct energy-efficiency assessments of small to medium-sized buildings, including those located in disadvantaged communities. Read the full press release.