Solar Energy International is a grassroots educational non-profit, with a big vision for what's possible when people are empowered with knowledge and skills. The organization specializes in hands-on workshops that teach people how to use renewable energy resources and sustainable building technologies through education and technical assistance. Solar Energy International (SEI) classes started with solar photovoltaic techniques, but have now grown to include wind power, micro hydro power, solar hot water systems and several other green home building skills.
Founded in 1991, in the small, yet forward thinking town of Carbondale, Colorado, Solar Energy International has grown to include a seven acre Eco-campus 60 miles south of Carbondale in the sunny North Fork Valley town of Paonia, Colorado. A staff of over 25 brings together a vast array of skills in the areas of building, education, renewable energy resources and sustainable designs. Likewise, a first class Board of Directors ensures successful growth and development of the organization. Solar Energy International programs reach around the globe and have empowered citizens to reduce their carbon footprint and even start new careers in the renewable energy market.
Solar Energy Classes Teach Green Home Design and Sustainable Systems
Solar Energy International's new REEP Program, Renewable Energy Education Program, teaches students how to design, build and maintain renewable energy systems and energy-efficient, sustainable homes. Classes are offered both online and as small, hands-on workshops. Workshops include:
- Solar Electric
- Sustainable Building
- Solar Thermal
- Wind Power
- Micro-hydro Power
- International Rural Development
- Renewable Energy for Educators
- Sustainable Transportation
Renewable Energy Outreach Programs Help Countries in Need
Many organizations around the world work to improve people's lives through renewable energy programs, yet many of these organizations are underfunded and understaffed. That is why SEI started its INVEST program. INVEST: International Volunteers in Environmentally Sustainable Technologies. Solar Energy International alumni are able to choose from a number of organizations with which to work, depending on the region of the world they would like to work in, the amount of time they have, and the type of expertise needed. Volunteers spend three months to a year working in the country of need. The program can be compared to a Peace Corp for renewable energy.
Solar Energy International's vision is to help create a more sustainable future for our planet and its inhabitants. Through their work, they seek to influence people's thinking and behaviors towards energy efficiency and the use of natural, sustainable methods of energy production and utilization.
Anyone looking to increase their knowledge of sustainable living, green home building and renewable energy systems will benefit from the classwork at Solar Energy International. The classwork will benefit homeowners and builders, but could also stand as a spring board to a new career in green home building.
Source: Solar Energy International
Related article on Suite 101: Building a Green Home: 5 Eco-friendly Principles of New Home Building, by Jessica Gore
Join the Conversation