Location:

San Jose, Costa Rica; Liberia, Costa Rica; Santa Cruz, Costa Rica

Program Type:

Study Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Term:

Summer

Program Overview

Program Description:

An interdisciplinary analysis of sustainable energy systems including environmental, social, political, and economic considerations. Special emphasis on public, private, educational, and community renewable energy initiatives in Costa Rica. Will include lectures from local experts; group discussions; solar, wind, biomass, geothermal, and hydroelectric field site visits; and a hands-on community activity in renewable energy.

The course will begin with three days in and around the capital city of San José where we will hear from local experts, visit various field sites, and discuss the foundations of energy, environment and society. We will then depart for the Northwest province of Guanacaste where we will visit a variety of renewable energy sites: Biomass, geothermal, solar, hydroelectric and wind.

We will visit a community-level solar thermal energy project where we will have an opportunity to get hands-on experience building a solar cooker or dehydrator. Also, one of our locations will provide an opportunity to enjoy geothermal hot springs (included in the course fee), and from another we will visit a nearby beach.

Setting Description:

Likely field sites include a small-scale energy demonstration facility (wind, hydroelectric, and biogas digester), solar energy laboratory, sugar cane ethanol and bagasse electricity production facility, geothermal power plant, solar photovoltaic grid-intertie system, and a large-scale wind farm and hydroelectric plant.

Cost:

Comprehensive fee of $2,200, which includes: In-country transportation, lodging, entrance fees, translation & accompaniment, travel & medical insurance, personalized pre-departure planning & advising, some meals, in-country orientation & cultural activities, logistical & emergency support, entrance to recreational sites, additional volunteer opportunities, and written course materials,