Author: Anherutowa Calvo ’27
The Energy Crisis: An Urgent Environmental Challenge
The world is currently grappling with an energy crisis that poses a significant threat to both the environment and global stability. The increasing energy demand, coupled with our heavy dependence on non-renewable resources, has led to the depletion of conventional energy reserves and significant environmental damage. This reliance on fossil fuels not only strains our energy supplies but also exacerbates environmental issues such as air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and the rapid progression of climate change. The energy sector is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions, making the transition to sustainable energy solutions a critical priority for ensuring a livable future. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted approach that includes technological innovation, policy reform, and widespread education on energy issues.
Leading the Charge: PUEA’s Vision, Structure, and Impact
At the forefront of Princeton’s sustainability efforts, the Princeton University Energy Association (PUEA) is spearheading initiatives that bridge the gap between energy education and real-world applications. We spoke with Cameron Farid, a rising junior in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering department and the President of PUEA, to gain insights into their vision, goals, and impact. Founded in 2014, PUEA aims to educate and excite people about energy opportunities, emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of energy that spans humanities, engineering, finance, and more. They strive to build a community where diverse conversations about energy can thrive, and they are actively working to expand their alumni network connections. According to Farid, energy impacts every facet of our lives, and PUEA’s interdisciplinary approach helps members appreciate its broad implications. His interest in energy issues was sparked during a high school debate project on fracking. This experience revealed the complexity of energy issues and ignited his passion for learning more about the energy sector. His involvement with PUEA has allowed him to explore these interests deeply and contribute to meaningful projects that align with his passion for sustainability.
As the largest energy group on campus with 70 active members, PUEA highlights research and efforts toward energy transition, clean tech, and practical sustainability solutions. Their focus on energy encompasses economic, technological, and environmental aspects. The group’s work in promoting renewable energy sources and sustainable practices underscores their dedication to environmental stewardship. PUEA has a structured approach with specialized roles, including general members who participate in the annual energy conference and weekly club dinners, and various subteams. These subteams include the conference planning team, journal team, and community outreach team, each playing a crucial role in the organization’s activities. Leadership positions include President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Social Chair, and directors for each key area. The strong alumni network, boasting over 500 members, further supports the organization’s initiatives.
PUEA’s annual conference is a significant event, attracting over 300 attendees and influential speakers from around the world, including representatives from Japan and leaders in the coal mining industry during the most recent conference. The journal team publishes insightful research, and PUEA hosts weekly dinners to provide a platform for engagement and discussion. Collaborations with solar non-profits like RE-volv demonstrate their commitment to community service and sustainability, reinforcing their role as a catalyst for change both on campus and beyond. They’re planning the next annual conference for September, alongside recruitment for the conference team. Past events have included an energy and clean-tech social event on April 23, and a field trip to the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory, a major climate research hub. These events reflect the organization’s commitment to continuous learning and engagement in the energy sector.
Getting Involved
Princeton students eager to make a tangible impact on energy sustainability can find a welcoming community in the Princeton University Energy Association. As the largest energy-focused student group on campus, PUEA offers myriad opportunities — from attending weekly dinners and major conferences to participating in specialized sub-teams — that cater to a wide range of interests within the energy sector. Engaging with PUEA not only allows students to delve into interdisciplinary energy issues but also connects them with a robust alumni network passionate about driving change. To become part of this dynamic organization or to learn more about their initiatives, visit their website and follow them on Instagram at, @princetonenergyassociation.
Citations:
The Trustees of Princeton University. (n.d.-d). Princeton University Energy Association. Princeton University. https://puea.princeton.edu/.
Fuels fix. Fuels Fix – Clean Cities stories & alternative fuels news. (2023, August 28). https://www.fuelsfix.com/