Energy

This page provides a space to update the community on events relating to energy consumption, conservation, and the transition to new energy sources and systems at Vassar and beyond.

In 2017-18, we are hosting a series of discussions and talks. For any updates, especially on timing and locations, see the list below.

Energy Transition Discussion Series

Responding to climate change requires dramatic transitions from fossil-based to renewable energy systems. The transition from a wood-based energy economy to a coal-based energy economy, for example, transformed ownership, production, labor, environmental impacts, geographies of resource extraction, consumption, and social relations of production. What shifts will the current energy transition, from fossil fuels to renewables, involve? How does this transition happen? What does it look like? Join the discussion.

Join us for a year-long series of discussions about what an energy transition might mean and how we can bring it about.

1. Film screening: Al Gore’s Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power
October 26, Library–2nd floor Reading Room

2. Panel: Energy Transition in the U.S. and China
November 2, Rocky 200

3. Field trip: Cornell’s Passive Standard campus building, NYC
Nov 11 (to be confirmed)

4. Lunchtime round table: What is Vassar’s Climate Action Plan?
November 8, ACDC. For Spring lunchtime series, watch this web site.

5. Field trip: Rhinebeck, Hudson Solar, net zero energy building
November 15, 3 pm, Main Circle

6. Field trip: Beacon Hydropower Plant (our first PPA, provides 10% of Vassar electricity)
November 29, 3 pm, Main Circle.

7. Public lecture: Affordable Passive Housing: Knickerbocker Commons, the world’s first net-zero energy, affordable housing January, location TBA

8. Round table discussion: Clean Energy Start-ups
February, location TBA

9. Alumnae/I Career Panel: Finding employment in renewable energy and sustainability March, location TBA

10. Advocacy training and poster session: Citizens Climate Lobby
April, location TBA