Unitil Corporation, (www.unitil.com), a provider of natural gas and electricity to customers in New England, is proud to announce plans to expand its relationship with the Shoals Marine Laboratory on Appledore Island, Maine, a world class marine research and education facility for the University of New Hampshire and Cornell University.
Unitil and the Shoals Marine Laboratory have enjoyed a unique relationship over the past 15 years, with the energy company aiding in the summer sustainable engineering program on Appledore Island. This year, Unitil is deepening its role in the lab’s undergraduate internship program by expanding upon preexisting program funding, and also providing mentorship to both engineering interns as well as an embedded communications intern who will be on site to chronicle and promote sustainable engineering activities.
At the heart of the project and internships is an electric grid that has been installed over the last decade by the Shoals Marine Laboratory and provides the majority of Appledore Island’s power. It is a self-contained ‘microgrid,’ meaning all the energy is generated on site and is disconnected from the mainland. The island already utilizes many of the tools often discussed as the potential future of electric infrastructure, including the full integration of renewable fuel sources like wind and solar energy, battery storage for off hour use and the widespread adoption of energy efficiency measures.
"The microgrid at the Shoals Marine Laboratory offers a unique learning opportunity, not only for the engineering interns who reside on site but for Unitil engineers as well. Their continued work is a story worth sharing; one that may lead towards a smarter energy future for us all."
Carol Valianti, Unitil Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs
“We are so proud of our sustainability program,” said Dr. Jennifer Seavey, executive director of the Shoals Marine Laboratory. “We are really excited to be strengthening the relationship with Unitil to prepare the next generation of engineers and to ensure that our island facilities continue to be models for sustainable living, which reflect our core goals.”
The Shoals Marine Laboratory’s Sustainability Program ‘Powered By Unitil’ will kick off in late June as part of the 2018 summer internship program.
About Shoals Marine Laboratory
Shoals Marine Laboratory (SML) is a world leader in the study, appreciation and conservation of sustainable, healthy oceans. Our hallmarks are experiential, place-based education, sustainability in action and innovative research to advance the understanding and protection of marine ecosystems. Founded in 1966, SML was the first and remains the largest marine laboratory dedicated to undergraduate education in the United States. SML trains scientists, scientifically literate citizens and leaders who address the needs of Earth’s life-sustaining oceans. Our academic programs engage students in active, place-based, experiential learning methods that are proven to have lasting and significant impacts. SML supports several long-term research projects that enhance the understanding of the Gulf of Maine; one of the most productive ocean regions and currently experiencing dramatic ecological change. Every summer, thousands of visitors participate in SML’s innovative public programming. All SML programs are infused with in our ethos of responsible natural resource use and management, valuing scientific and community collaboration, and public service.
For more information please contact:
Robbin Ray
UNH Media Relations
robbin.ray@unh.edu
603) 862-4864
@unhnews
