World Energy Project
We strongly believe that access to reliable affordable energy is the cornerstone to prosperity in emerging economies. With rising energy demand and cost, some sectors benefit while others struggle. The population most vulnerable to energy deprivation is the lower economic segment of a developing nation, often the nations rich in energy resources where our industry operates.
World Energy Project provides energy resources to small communities in developing countries where access to electricity is unavailable through traditional sources. The project utilizes solar panels capable of providing light to an individual home. Students travel to the communities to learn about system design, microfinance culture and assist with the installation of panels.
As students graduate from the Energy Commerce program, most immediately go to work in the oil and gas related industry. Due to strong industry demand, the starting salaries are increasingly generous. While we want all of our students to be financially successful, we also recognize that a university education should include more than job skill training. An important component particularly in the age of globalization is the realization of the connection among all facets of the global economy.
Few American students have an awareness of the importance of community service and still fewer any international experience. They are however, quick to realize that an increase in the price of energy can be beneficial to their careers. The other side of course, is that rising prices may cause many to do without basic energy services. The goal is to teach students that while our industry is exciting and potentially lucrative, it is also vitally important to the health and well being of the world's population. Their career efforts are significant beyond what they see and do on a day to day basis.
Beginning in 2011, the World Energy Project with its partner, Light Up The World, established a permanent base in Lima, Peru. The 2011 project took place in the Peruvian Andes near Cusco. Please see the slide show below.
We are seeking sponsors and will gladly make a presentation to any interested group or individual. For more information contact Terry McInturff at the Center for Energy Commerce, Texas Tech University 806.834.1609 or