Renewable energy education and training is an appropriate topic for young and old alike. Renewable energy classes are an education option for a variety of people, from those going to obtain a degree down to a young child learning about it in school. Renewable energy education is a pressing topic in this day an age with fuel prices skyrocketing driving up our economic expenses.

An alternative energy degree will be a prized asset as the demand for different fuel sources outweighs our ability to afford fossil fuels.

To find a renewable energy education and training program for you:

1. Determine who the audience is. Is it you? Is it small children at an elementary school? Is it teenagers or young adults? Knowing the age group will determine the course of study.

2. What is the intention of the alternative energy training? Is it to obtain a degree? Is it to educate someone else?

3. Factor in your budget. Small projects equal small budgets, while a degree can cost you in the tens of thousands or more.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Promote renewable energy training as a teacher or parent

Teachers and parents have the social responsibility to include renewable energy education in their curriculum and at home practices.

I recommend: Find K-12 lesson plans, teacher and parent information, student and administrator resources from the US Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy site. The Wisconsin K-12 Energy Education Program (KEEP) offers K-12 teaching materials. Look at the grant programs offered through SRP Classroom Connections. The State Energy Conservation Office has a long list of renewable energy training links that you can access for even more information.

Pursue renewable energy education at any age

Adult renewable energy education is an interesting topic that has a number of resources.

I recommend: Solar Energy International offers Hands-on Workshops and Online Courses. Austin Community College offers continuing education in Renewable Energy whether you want to put in your own solar panels, design your own new technology or just want to learn more about the subject. Find Renewable Energy Workshops offered through Appalachian State University to go towards your continuing education credits.

Find degree programs at a renewable energy school

Look for alternative energy education degree programs at the college or university of your choice.

I recommend: The National Renewable Energy Laboratory offers internships and graduate programs. The Maharishi University of Management offers the first sustainable living degree program in America covering topics such as Self Sustainability, Eco-Architectural Design, Renewable Energy and Sustainable Agriculture. Arizona State University offers you their School of Sustainability. Obtain a Society & Environment Major form the UC Berkeley College of Natural Resources.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If your school does not offer an alternative energy degree, still try and take renewable energy courses towards your overall degree. They will usually fill one of your core education requirements for the school.