UC Davis is meeting the energy sector's call --in California and across the globe-- for talented and well-trained individuals who will bring innovation to their companies. We are preparing tomorrow's energy system leaders through course offerings in energy efficiency, resource management certification, and degree programs featuring energy efficiency in design, engineering, and business innovation.

Courses Offered by the Energy Efficiency Center

The Energy Efficiency Center (EEC) currently offers three courses annually examining critical aspects of energy efficiency. These courses --taught one per quarter throughout the academic year-- are open to graduate and advanced undergraduate students and provide a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities, theories and practices, economic considerations as well as innovative technological advances in energy efficiency. They provide a critical foundation for students interested in working in the energy field.

• NEW! Fall Quarter (2008-09):
  TTP 289A-003 - "Innovations in Energy Efficiency" (T/Th 1:40-3:00pm in Olson room #147)
  Technical and social innovations could significantly expand the possibilities for saving energy and reducing emissions. But which innovations are actually feasible? Economic? Likely to have a major impact? Through a series of case-studies, students will acquire the tools and methods to evaluate innovations and other proposals to reduce energy use. The course will focus on innovations emerging from research at UC Davis, especially in lighting, cooling, and transportation so as to maximize the participation of local researchers. The course will also examine “social inventions” leading to changes that could have a large impact on energy use.
  
  

• Winter Quarter (2008-09):
  TTP 289B-003 - “The Economics of Energy Efficiency and Climate Change Mitigation”
  Future decisions to save energy or to mitigate climate change will be heavily based on the perceived costs and benefits of those actions. For that reason, it is important to understand the markets, the mechanisms, and decision-making processes behind the demand for energy. This course will explore factors that can accelerate (or derail) an energy-efficient, low-emissions future.
  
  
  
• Spring Quarter (2008-09):
  TTP 289A-004 - "Energy Efficiency: Understanding the Other Side of the Meter"
  This foundational course presents the key concepts and methods of energy efficiency. It explores how energy is converted into useful services and the role of increased efficiency in providing those services with less energy. The different forms of efficiency improvements and conservation are introduced, drawing upon examples in transportation, buildings, and industry. The practical implications of public policies, behavior, and economics are interspersed with technical and theoretical aspects. Students measure energy use and undertake independent investigations.

Related Courses Offered by Other UC Davis Departments and Colleges

UC Davis has a rich history in providing students with a balanced education that incorporates the need for obtaining a sound grasp and foundation in theory with practical, hands-on experience. Courses taught throughout the UC Davis campus incorporate energy efficiency in concept, theory, and in practical application.

Professional and Continuing Education

UC Davis offers evening and weekend courses as well as remote learning certificate programs designed to reach out to the working professional in green building design, energy systems, and resource management. Business development intensives and the Green Technology Entrepreneurship Academy are offered by the Center for Entrepreneurship. Certificate programs and classes in lighting design and daylight harvesting are also offered as are classes in post-harvest energy reduction methods and technologies.

Internships, Fellowships, and Other Financial Support

A variety of internships, fellowships, and other financial support are offered to UC Davis students throughout the academic calendar year and during the summer. These opportunities provide students with the knowledge, skills, and real-time work and research experience they need in establishing a career in the energy efficiency field.