Target Area Rationale:

In an era dominated by the urgent need for sustainable solutions, the case for clean energy sources and related technologies and practices has never been more compelling. The challenges posed by climate change, coupled with the need for reliable and accessible energy sources as well as resilient food and water supplies, underscore the critical importance of transitioning towards cleaner and more efficient energy systems. There are also implications for economic growth, technological innovation, and social equity. In essence, clean energy solutions offer a pathway to a more sustainable, resilient, prosperous and equitable future for all. With expertise in renewable energy research, OSU enables the production and storage of clean energy, and its commitment to community engagement ensures research translates into practical solutions, amplifying impact and changing lives of Oregonians and beyond. OSU's blend of expertise, collaboration, and community engagement makes it a potent force for advancing clean energy and sustainability practices. Clean energy links closely with the other three focus areas, as well as the foundational areas of AI and data science, and is also featured in the plans for the Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex.

Clean Energy and Related Solutions Task Force Members:
  • Adam Ward, Head and Professor, Biological and Ecological Engineering – Co-chair (CAS)
  • Bryson Robertson, Professor, Civil and Construction Engineering and Director, Pacific Marine Energy Center – Co-chair (COE)
  • Bahman Abbasi, Associate Professor, Mechanical, Industrial, and Manufacturing Engineering (COE)
  • Shawn Hazboun, Assistant Professor, Sociology, School of Public Policy (CLA)
  • David Ji, Professor, Chemistry (COS)
  • Hong Liu, Professor, Biological and Ecological Engineering (COE)
  • Karina Nielsen, Director, Oregon Sea Grant (Extension)