Advice To a Young Man on Renewable Energy

A young reader named Brendan writes:

Hi, I am a student currently in the 12th grade. With your knowledge and expertise in the field of renewable energy, I would really appreciate it if you could guide me in making an important decision. I would like to take up a course related to renewable energy (solar) for my higher studies, but I was told not to specialize too early, as there are several things to learn before that, in order to build a strong foundation.

As a professional in the field of renewable energy, what would you recommend?

I’d be very grateful to you for helping me out on the matter.  Thank you.

Hi, Brendan.

First, let me say that I think you are receiving excellent advice re: not specializing too early.

I don’t know anything about your personal strengths and interests, but, if you’re a math/science guy, I would advise you to get into the best college you can, and develop a good understanding of physics and engineering, especially mechanics, electricity/magnetism, and thermodynamics.

Also, there are fantastic curricula in dozens of different disciplines under the banner of “environmental science,” an arena that is expanding every year, as our civilization realizes the extent of the damage it’s doing to our planet’s eco-systems.  Btw, most of this didn’t even exist when I was your age.

Specific applications to renewable energy can come later.  It will still be here when you graduate; I can assure you of that.  In the course of all this (including the experience you will gain from summer jobs), you’ll have had time to determine what areas (PV, solar thermal, wind, geothermal, hydro, biomass–perhaps even advanced nuclear) you find most interesting.  Keep in mind also that there are numerous activities that forward the cause of clean energy that have nothing to do with science: law, politics, economics, journalism, etc.

Thanks for asking, and best of luck to you.  You’re in a great position in your young life; take advantage of it while you can, and get the most out of every nanosecond.  I sure wish I could go back 40 years and do all this again.