The University of the Virgin Islands has introduced an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program in Renewable Energy Technology (RET), aiming to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in renewable energy. The university invites individuals interested in the field to join a virtual information session on November 21, 2024, from noon to 1 p.m. AST via Zoom.
The session will cover details about the AAS RET program, including course offerings, admission requirements, enrollment procedures, and career opportunities in renewable energy and energy management. Attendees will also have the chance to learn about the practical and theoretical aspects of the program.
Developed by the UVI College of Science and Mathematics in collaboration with the Caribbean Green Technology Center (CGTC), the AAS in RET is a two-year program designed to equip students with essential skills in renewable energy. The curriculum focuses on basic electrical concepts, renewable energy technologies, and photovoltaic (PV) system installation and repair.
Students will gain hands-on experience through required labs and internships, preparing them to enter the renewable energy workforce with confidence. Graduates will also be positioned to advance their studies towards a baccalaureate degree in physics or applied mathematics. Additionally, the program prepares students for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) PV Associate examination, a globally recognized certification for PV system installers.
Dr. Greg Guannel, director of the CGTC, highlighted the program's importance in addressing the region’s growing renewable energy demands. “The U.S. Virgin Islands is experiencing a rapid growth in renewable energy system installation motivated by a need for higher energy security in the islands,” said Mr. Guannel. “Since 2017, there has been a 32 percent increase in solar systems installed on rooftops (homes and businesses alike), and the VI Water and Power Authority is investing in wind and solar farms on all islands. The number of businesses also nearly doubled since 2017, indicating the strength of the market. We need to ensure that there is a local workforce to meet this demand.”
The program's first offering, Introduction to Renewable Energy, begins on January 13, 2025. The course will include virtual instruction complemented by in-person labs conducted on the Albert A. Sheen Campus. The deadline to register for the course is January 10, 2025. Interested individuals can register at UVI General Registration Information.
To participate in the November 21 virtual information session, register at UVI AAS RET Registration using Meeting ID: 990 9455 5639. For those unable to attend, the session will be rebroadcast on UVI CGTC’s social media platforms on November 25, 2024, at 7 p.m. AST.
For further inquiries about the program, contact Mr. Gregory Guannel at (340) 693-1158 or via email at [email protected].
