The Renewable Energy Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity that exists, in part, to provide academic scholarships to students in Oregon and Washington pursuing advanced studies in renewable energy innovations. Study areas may include biomass, geothermal, wind, solar etc.

As funds permit, the Foundation may make scholarships available to students pursuing advanced study in renewable energy. The Foundation shall have the ability to apply for research grants and other funding as available and appropriate for the furtherance of its purpose.

The Foundation may also increase community awareness about renewable energy through education. Activities may include informing the public of the value of renewable energy solutions in order to help mitigate negative effects of climate change. Educational materials may also be developed for these purposes.

RESF will award five scholarships based upon academic merit, accomplishments in the field, and demonstrated interest:

• One is reserved for an early undergraduate (preferably community college) student;
• one for a late undergraduate;
• one for an early graduate student; and
• the last two are available to students at any level (but are most likely to go to late graduate students).   
• At least one of these five scholarships will be awarded to a diversity candidate, defined as ethnic and racial minorities; first-generation college students; lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students; and students with physical disabilities.

To qualify, the applicant must:

1. Be an undergraduate or graduate student studying renewable energy (in any sense, including economics, law, public policy, energy storage, demand response, grid-interactive efficient buildings and load flexibility, advanced grid modernization, greening of the grid, etc.) at any college or university in Oregon or Washington;    or, be studying outside of Oregon and Washington, but be from one of those states, and intend to return to the Pacific Northwest after studies are complete;     or, be a Native American or Alaskan Native student.

2. Superior academic performance.

3. Criteria considered by the Selection Committee, not necessarily in order of importance, include Academic performance to date, Projected future academic performance, Demonstrated experience with and/or knowledge of field of study, Essay content and writing quality, Commitment to and experience with inspiring others to learn more about renewable energy, and Service.

• freshman
• sophomore
• junior
• senior
• graduate

• US Citizen
• Permanent Resident
• International or Other Visa Status
• Undocumented

Pursuant to these requirements, applicants must submit:

1. A letter (not to exceed 3 pages) detailing your interests, academic pursuits, and career goals directed towards the field of renewable energy. 

2. Resume

3. Academic transcripts (unofficial OK)

4. Two letters of recommendation, sent directly from the writer.

5. If you would like to be considered for the Diversity Scholarship, please include an extra page indicating how you qualify for that scholarship and describing any way (positive or negative) your specialness has affected your life/studies.

6. If you would like to be considered for the Morris or BNSF Scholarships for Native Americans or Alaskan Natives, please indicate your tribal affiliation.

Applicants may also include information about any awards, internships or other distinctions which demonstrate accomplishments in renewable energy.

DEADLINE for the application is February 15. We hope to have awards announced by April 30.  

Application materials and letters sent by email are easier to forward to our selection committee, please use this address.