Scientific and technological advances will be key to addressing the energy challenges of the 21st century, in which global energy needs will more than double by 2050. This summer school will provide an overview of current issues and sustainable technologies in the energy cycle from generation, collection, storage, distribution and utilization. This year we will focus specifically on the challenges of modernizing our nation’s electricity infrastructure to develop power systems that are intelligent, efficient, robust, and secure.

In the United States, the grid is expected to deliver an estimated 15 to 20 Terawatt hours/year of electric power across North America by 2050. It will manage millions of supply and demand transactions a day and transform the way we use energy by creating an interactive energy marketplace. The challenges of creating grid networks in developing societies with incomplete infrastructure, fewer energy sources and unique patterns of consumption will also be addressed at this summer school.

The SSUN (SLAC, Stanford University, NREL) Energy Summer School is a two-week residential program for enrolled science and engineering graduate students* who have serious interest in energy research. Energy science and engineering requires a collaborative effort, and we invite students from a variety of disciplines (physics and condensed matter physics, materials science and engineering, chemistry and chemical engineering, bio-sciences, geosciences, and electrical and mechanical engineering) to apply.

Enrollment is competitive and limited to 50 students. An application is required. Please see the Applications link for detailed information. The school will not be open to auditors this year.

Support for this school is generously provided by program sponsors. All students will be provided breakfast and lunch, as well as participate in the welcome and graduation dinners at the beginning and end of the school. Nonlocal students will also be provided housing from August 8-21, 2010 at no charge. Students are required to pay a non-refundable registration fee ($400) upon acceptance to the school. Certificates will be awarded upon completion of the school.