University Developing Renewable Energy Certified Education Program

Jennifer Raley
Cumberland Times-News

FROSTBURG — Frostburg State University is developing a wind-solar energy certified education program.

“This certified education program will train people for jobs in the growing energy sector,” said Appalachian Regional Commission Federal Co-chairwoman Anne Pope.

On Friday at FSU’s Renewable Energy Symposium and Expo, Pope announced the $45,816 ARC grant for the program.

“Frostburg State University, with its innovative solar and wind systems, is an ideal partner to help us move our initiative forward in the region,” said Pope.

University officials expect 24 local contractors and entrepreneurs to enroll in the program that consists of wind generation and photovoltaic solar installation workshops. Each workshop will consist of eight weeks of interactive online instruction and three days of conventional instruction at FSU.

“This project, which entails the training and certification of program participants in the design and installation of residential wind and solar electric generation, supports our state’s energy initiatives as it pertains to the promotion of affordable, reliable and clean energy, the conservation of our existing energy resources, as well as the development of new alternative and renewable energy sources,” said Al Feldstein of the Maryland Department of Planning.

Equity Groups.Com, Sept. 15, 2007