The Ohio State University and IGS Energy announced a new public-private initiative to support research, student engagement and other university programs promoting sustainable energy. The initiative reflects the urgency of transitioning to low-carbon options for energy to reduce climate change, a priority for both Ohio State and IGS Energy. The company will invest $1 million over five years in sustainable energy research and student learning through the university’s Sustainability Institute with an aim of developing new innovations and emerging leaders to facilitate the transition.
“This new initiative with IGS Energy aligns with Ohio State’s commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and to help others reach the same important goal,” said Executive Director of the Sustainability Institute Kate Bartter. In 2020, the university detailed its climate action plan, including steps to improve building energy efficiency, diversify sources of energy and address transportation-related emissions. “We see a great opportunity to transfer the knowledge our researchers have to offer to the wider community through collaborations with the private sector,” Bartter said.
IGS Energy, which has made its own commitment to become carbon neutral by 2040, emphasizes the practical applications of the new relationship. “By partnering with the Sustainability Institute at Ohio State, we can help apply the sustainability knowledge generated by university researchers to the energy needs of the real world,” said Scott White, IGS Energy president and CEO. “What we learn from this collaboration will ultimately end up in the hands of our employees, customers and the communities we serve.”
The new initiative calls for IGS to invest $750,000 in sustainability research, student programs and other projects based on an annual assessment process between the company and the university. Consumer awareness and behavior related to sustainable energy, demand response programs, and energy policy and regulatory systems are high on the list of areas to investigate. The Sustainability Institute will receive the remaining $250,000 to support its continued engagement of the business community. “As a land-grant university, providing for the common good is always a priority,” Bartter said. “Working toward carbon neutrality through external collaborations like this initiative with IGS Energy is sure to enhance the common good.”
For more information, visit www.igs.com.