The West Virginia University Institute of Technology will receive a $25,000 grant from PPG Industries, which will allow students to continue groundbreaking research in the area of renewable energy.

Natrium plant manager and Tech alumnus Jim Rock will present the award at 1 p.m. Tuesday (June 17) on the WVU Tech campus.

PPG is pleased to make a significant donation to the West Virginia University Institute of Technologys new Biochemical Teaching and Laboratory initiative to provide hands-on chemistry experiences for students,Rock said.

The funding is part of a $1.7 million campaign supporting the biochemistry lab. These grants will continue the institutions research into coal as a cleaner energy resource.

PPG has hired many exceptional WVU Tech graduates who continue to make important contributions to our business,Rock said.Todays $25,000 donation is the first installment of a total $50,000 contribution to the University program over the next two years.

Richard Schoening, chair of Techs chemistry department, added,This grant will provide vital instrumentation needed in our lab as WVU Tech students continue their groundbreaking energy research. Weve already been awarded patents on our process removing mercury from the byproducts of coal energy production, and this award will continue the development this technology and research in renewable resources.

The grant was facilitated by and made to Tech Foundation Inc., a nonprofit corporation whose mission is to raise, manage and disburse funds on behalf of WVU Tech.

Pittsburgh-based PPG is a global supplier of paints, coatings, chemicals, optical products, specialty materials, glass and fiber glass. The company has more than 150 manufacturing facilities and equity affiliates and operates in more than 60 countries. PPG s sales in 2007 were $11.2 billion.

WVU Tech, a division of WVU , offers more than 50 four-year programs in the engineering, sciences, business, social sciences, public administration, humanities and health fields. The institution is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Engineering and Technology Accreditation commissions of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education and other premier accrediting agencies.