Renewable Energy for International Development provides an examination of energy and economics in developing countries with special consideration given to renewable energy sources. The course will combine 8-weeks of online instruction with 10 days of travel and study abroad in Costa Rica. Students will learn to specify, design, and install renewable energy systems for developing countries. Field work will include design and installation of one or more of the following types of renewable energy systems:
Mastatal is a rural village roughly 2.5 hours (by bus) southwest of Costa Rica’s capital city, San Jose. Mastatal has a population of roughly 120 residents, most of whom are low income agricultural workers, whose income derives from coffee and cocoa cultivation and/or small scale livestock operations (chickens, hogs, and cattle).The primary source of energy for most residents is firewood, which is used both as source of light, heat, and for cooking fuel.