Kresge Foundation awards “green” grant for I.F. energy center

Idaho State University has received a $25,000 grant from the Kresge Foundation to supplement construction planning for the new Center for Advanced Energy Studies Building, adjacent to the Center for Higher Education at University Place in Idaho Falls.

The principal investigator for the grant was Syed Hashim, environmental specialist with Facilities Services. Dr. Larry Ford is the interim chief research officer for ISU and a member of the CAES Steering Committee.

    The Kresge Foundation provides a one-time only, competitive grant for developing a sustainable “green” building. This type of structure has a minimal draw on non-renewable resources and gives high priority to respecting the physical and natural environment. This private foundation was founded in 1924 and is known primarily for its challenge grants for capital projects.

    The CAES project is a partnership between the state of Idaho, the Idaho University Consortium (ISU, Boise State University and University of Idaho) and Idaho National Laboratory. When completed in 2008, the CAES Building will be a Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design (LEED) Silver certified “green” building. Its mission is to address critical science and engineering issues that will help resolve the challenges associated with providing an appropriate mix of energy technologies needed to address the energy needs of the United States and the world. Advanced energy sources to be researched include nuclear, hydrogen, fossil fuels and the full spectrum of renewable energy sources.

    CAES is also developing its research agenda to advance the education of the next generation of scientists and engineers, engage in long-term, university-based research activities and will host a range of national and international events. The center will serve as a hub for Idaho universities to network and as a gateway for developing collaboration, partnerships and connectivity between researchers.

    The grant was used to facilitate the CAES planning efforts and to pay for professional consultation, initial costs and energy analysis.

    For more information on this premier international facility, visit www.caesenergy.org.