Idaho State University College of Technology to offer renewable energy technology program beginning March 2011

Idaho State University's Energy Systems Technology and Education Center (ESTEC) will offer a new Renewable Energy Technology Technical Certificate Program, beginning March 2011.

The Renewable Energy Technology program is funded through a State Department of Labor Grant made possible by the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009. Idaho State University's College of Technology received $1.5 million in funding to offer this program. 

Classes for the Renewable Energy Technology program will be offered on-line and evenings with weekend and summer laboratory exercises held on the ISU campus.  The on-line delivery of theory courses will make this program accessible to students state-wide.  Students receiving their technical certificate will also obtain credits towards ESTEC's other 2-year degree programs if they elect to continue their education.

This new program will feature a full gamut of renewable energy technologies and power generation sources including wind, solar, hydro and geothermal power.  Students will receive on-line instruction concerning the theory and underlying fundamentals of each of these technologies and generation sources prior to completing the laboratory sessions on campus.

ESTEC is a public/private partnership between ISU, the Idaho National Laboratory and Partners for Prosperity.  The Center currently offers a complete suite of energy systems engineering technology programs including Instrumentation and Automation, Instrumentation and Controls, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering Technology and Wind Engineering Technology. 

Those interested in starting the new Renewable Energy Technology program in March are encouraged to begin the admissions process now. To receive more information about the program visit www.isu.edu/estec or call (208) 282-3085. 

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