The University of Houston is leading efforts to develop renewable, clean wind energy.
The debate continues over sources of renewable energy. Thanks to recent UH-led research efforts, the answer may be blowing in the wind.
UH’s Cullen College of Engineering is the principal institution involved in the Lone Star Wind Alliance. This coalition of universities, government agencies and corporate partners will oversee a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) facility on the Texas Gulf Coast to test turbine blades and wind system components.
“This is an important first step in establishing Texas as a global leader in wind energy technology and providing an important support base for a projected half trillion dollar global industry,” said Ray Flumerfelt, UH professor of chemical and biomedical engineering.
The Lone Star Wind Alliance was one of only two national finalists selected to oversee a DOE facility.
“It is exciting that in Texas we are taking the lead in research and development,” said U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison in a letter of support. “This announcement will bring cutting-edge research and equipment to our Gulf Coast and will help create the next generation of wind energy for Texas and the nation.”
The effort to secure a DOE facility in Texas also was supported by the Office of the Governor, the Texas General Land Office, state senators and private sector supporters.
