What’s the difference between energy and power? Where does the majority of oil imported into the United States come from? (Hint: It’s not the Middle East.)

Learn the answers to these questions and more by enrolling in ARE 187: Energy Resource Economics, a new course offered this fall through the West Virginia University Davis College of Agriculture Natural Resources and Design.

Developed by Wesley Burnett, assistant professor of agricultural resource economics, the course is designed to be an introduction to fossil fuel and renewable energy sources, the economics of energy markets, the effects of energy production and consumption on the environment, and national policies involving energy.

From future engineers to future economists, Burnett believes the course will appeal to and benefit a variety of WVU students.

“Energy is clearly important to individuals and society,” he said. “It’s imperative to develop an understanding of energy resources because they have a substantial affect on our present and future lifestyles.”

The course will incorporate lectures, guest speakers and at least one field trip. It will also cover fossil resources such as coal, oil and natural gas and renewable resources like solar, wind, geothermal and hydroelectric power.

Burnett hopes to provide an unbiased view of energy, economics and the environment.

Classes will meet from 11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays in 801 Engineering Sciences Building. The three-credit hour course is open to all students and fulfills Objective 4 of the General Education Curriculum requirement.

For more information, contact Burnett at 293-5639 or Wesley.Burnett@mail.wvu.edu.

-WVU-

lw/7/18/11

CONTACT: Wesley Burnett, assistant professor
304-293-5639

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