Power Engineering Research Experience for Undergrads (REU)

PwrEng REU Overview:

As our country moves toward its goal of 100% carbon-free electricity systems by 2035, the reliable and resilient operation of the U.S. power grid faces unprecedented challenges introduced by the intermittency and uncertainty of variable renewable resources such as wind and solar. Installation of hundreds of gigawatts (GW) of wind and solar generation is projected to meet this goal. These dramatic changes in generation sources will require ideas and innovative technologies to maintain reliable grid operation and drive the expansion of jobs to support power sector decarbonization. This REU site is designed to help address these issues and develop highly skilled workforce by introducing a diverse and inclusive cohort of undergraduate students to the scientific challenges and societally relevant needs in the power system.

This REU site is designed to conduct research addressing the barriers to developing a resilient carbon free electricity system.  

• The PwrEng REU features a ten-week immersive summer research program for ten undergraduate students annually.
• The students will research into open questions in collaboration with the power industry including NYISO, NYPA, and NYSEG for grid decarbonization and resiliency (Research topics include energy economics, grid integration of wind, solar, and energy storage, and grid transition. Please see "Research Projects" page for details).
• Research activities will be enriched by professional development activities and field trips (including tours of NG’s substation in Upstate New York, the NYPA’s St Lawrence Franklin D. Roosevelt Power Project in Massena NY, and a virtual tour of NREL’s energy infrastructure in Golden, CO).

Apply Now
*Students from underrepresented groups in science and engineering, veterans, and disabled are especially encouraged to apply.

**Students from research-limited schools including community colleges and teaching-oriented schools are especially encouraged to apply.

***The PwrEng-REU program is dedicated to the ideals of diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion and we ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all scholars. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about the housing accommodations or other aspects of the program.