The US Department Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Program and Oak Ridge Institute for Science Education are pleased to announce the 2014 Geothermal Student Competition. The Geothermal Student Competition seeks students interested in building and showcasing scientific research, communication and leadership skills to promote geothermal energy as a player in the nation’s renewable energy future. This year’s event focuses on a non-technical barrier to geothermal development: public communications. Energy production can be a complex topic to explain to a broad public audience, and describing energy that comes from a subsurface environment—difficult to visualize for many—amplifies the challenge of explaining geothermal energy, how it works, and how it can benefit consumers.
The Challenge:
This year’s Competition focuses on a non-technical barrier to geothermal development: public communications. Students are asked to develop a cutting-edge geothermal communications tool that integrates accurate, technical information with a graphical visualization infographic. Students will also create an outreach plan to disseminate the infographic to local middle and high schools.
Who Should Apply?
Teams may consist of undergraduates and/or graduate students. High school seniors are encouraged to apply.
Where do I Apply?
The Competition application, guidelines, and further details can all be found on the Competition website. http://orise.orau.gov/geothermal
Semi-Finalist Awards
The five most compelling and competitive applications will receive a total award of $2,500, where $2,000 is expected to be used as project development funds (stipend) and $500 is to develop an outreach presentation for middle and high school students.
Key Dates:
- Feb. 21: Application page opens
- March 25: Kick-off Call with prospective Student Teams
- April 5: Round 1 deliverables due: Project plan, Communications and Education Strategy, and Infographic mock-up due
- NLT April 16: Five finalists are notified and invited to submit full application packages
- June 14: Final packets due
- NLT June 27: First, second, and third place teams are notified
- September 28-October 1: GRC Conference: Five finalists attend the GRC conference in Portland and winners are announced. Additionally, GRC attendees will have the opportunity to vote for a “People’s Choice Award,” the winner of which will be announced at GRC’s conclusion.
