D-Lab and Path to Zero Net Energy Initiative
The Program for International Energy Technologies (PIET) developed D-lab and the Path to Zero Net Energy (ZNE) Initiative to engage students in finding solutions to energy issues in developed and developing countries.
D-Lab
Founded in 2008, The UC Davis D-Lab works with international partners to find scalable, sustainable solutions for specific energy issues in their host communities. Faculty and graduate students from Engineering, International Agriculture Development, Community Development, Business, and Economics work together in teams in the lab and in the field. Using a bottom-up approach, D-Lab works with local communities to understand specific energy needs and assess the sustainability of proposed energy solutions through technical, social, environmental, and financial lenses. D-Lab focuses on innovative technologies and business models that can allow people at the “bottom of the pyramid” to save or earn more money. D-Lab is building expertise in water pumping and irrigation, post harvest drying and storage, off-grid lighting and micro power, and small-scale renewable energy such as solar and biogas.
Path to Zero Net Energy Initiative
The PZNE Initiative, in partnership with the UC Davis Energy Conservation Office, is a multi-disciplinary course to educate and engage students in issues of energy use, demand, energy efficiency, renewable energy and climate neutrality as well as their associated technical, economic, social and political challenges. Through lectures, field trips, and a hands-on project, students will understand the concepts behind zero net energy buildings and communities, and the associated climate and economic issues.
