News

Research Consortium Takes Aim at Alternative Energy Solutions

The commonwealth's alternative energy efforts were endorsed by the state legislature in the form of research funding in the budget, which is awaiting the governor's signature.

Led by senators Frank Wagner and Ed Houck, along with delegates Leo Wardrup and Phil Hamilton, an alliance of energy researchers was awarded $1.5 million to expand state efforts into finding and producing energy alternatives. Specifically, the Virginia Coastal Energy Research Consortium (VCERC), is initially tasked with research and development of Virginia's marine renewable energy resources, including wind, waves and biomass, using algae to produce fuel.

In order to further the commonwealth's push to harness and utilize alternative energy resources, last year Old Dominion University assisted in creating an association of researchers similarly interested and experienced in the field. With headquarters at
ODU, the consortium was created by pairing a strategic coalition of industry, agency and educational partners, including Virginia Tech, James Madison University, Norfolk State University and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science.

"This initiative is but a small step in the direction of energy independence," said Del. Phil Hamilton, of Newport News. "The institutions identified for this funding can make Virginia a leader in the development of such research and technology. It is critical that this nation aggressively seek alternative energy sources to reduce our dependence on foreign oil."

Article in March 2007 issue of "Richmond Review", a publication of Old Dominion University.