University students interested in renewable energy research and development are invited to participate in the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Geothermal Collegiate Competition, which is accepting submissions until February 17, 2022.

Student teams assume the role of a geothermal developer, devising direct-use strategies to heat and cool buildings, campuses or districts. The competition fosters project development, design and communications skills while boosting public understanding of geothermal power as a direct, renewable source of energy. Team submissions include a use case, resource assessment, usage evaluation and a plan to engage the local community.

Competitors can also participate in a series of virtual trainings on geothermal site planning tools and practices. Upcoming trainings include the GEOPHIRES geothermal techno-economic simulation tool, environmental regulations and permitting for geothermal projects, the GeoRePORT Socio-Economic Assessment Tool and reservoir modeling tips and tricks.

The recently completed Spring 2021 round of the competition included geothermal concepts designed for Native American reservations, universities, mixed-use communities and hospital campuses.

The competition also includes $50,000 in cash prizes to student teams and their universities.