Case Study Contest Harnesses Student Energy Across the State

PowerMinders and PennFuture are sponsoring an Energy Efficiency Case Study Contest for college students from across the state. Students submit case studies of energy
efficiency projects documenting ways in which homes, businesses and institutions are transforming how people use energy and compete for a $500 prize. Student submissions will be evaluated by an expert panel, and included in a publicly available library.

PowerMinders is a statewide college student network dedicated to saving homeowners on their energy bills. PennFuture is a leading environmental advocacy organization in Pennsylvania. “It’s great to see PowerMinders and PennFuture recognize the work of students who are so actively involved in energy and environmental issues”, says Dr. Eric Malm, Assistant Professor at Cabrini College and the faculty advisor on the project. “The students have inspired us‐ this contest will give an opportunity for students statewide to inspire and learn from one another”. The contest allows campuses to gain statewide recognition for their efforts on campus and in the classroom. “Energy projects are in full swing, but there is little attention paid to these important efforts. Projects help open the eyes of college students to the
possibilities of green careers”, says Tom Tuffey, Director, PennFuture.

The award is currently slated at $500 for the winning student. “Any energy related company in PA that would like to participate should contact us. Linking our top students with top companies in PA is a goal in these tough times”, says Malm. “Ideas generate more ideas – some projects may provide the impetus for community‐based or residential projects”. To learn how to participate go to www.powerminders.com/educators. Submission deadline is November 30, 2009.