Experiential Learning
Immersion experiences are an essential part of the Energy Studies minor. "Puerto Rico: Road Map to a Renewable Future" brings together students from diverse majors and backgrounds to explore and engage with aspects of energy challenges on the island. Interacting with people affected by constant power outages and high energy prices offers a level of learning not found in a traditional classroom.
Puerto Rico Course Description
After Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico in 2017, the island's energy infrastructure was destroyed. The lack of electricity for nearly a year in rural areas contributed to thousands of post-hurricane deaths. A continuous stream of powerful storms continues to threaten the antiquated electrical grid. As the island continues the struggle for reliable power, there are calls for replacing the fossil-fuel-based centralized grid with renewable microgrids, using abundant solar, wind, and water resources. This seminar will explore the complications of such a seemingly straightforward solution.
ENER 37002, "Puerto Rico: Road Map to a Renewable Future," consists of six classes and a spring break immersion in Puerto Rico. Students will learn from dedicated Puerto Ricans as they attempt to resolve energy inadequacies. They will interact with communities that are frustrated with a lack of response from the government and are trying to take matters into their own hands. Topics will include technological issues along with economic, political, historical, health, and ethical considerations unique to Puerto Rico.
In weekly classes before the trip, participants will meet with members of the Puerto Rican diaspora; review a non-technical survey of energy options and the social and economic ramifications of each; and examine their own lifestyles regarding daily choices that affect the environment.
The week on the island will be split between San Juan and the mountain town of Adjuntas. The primary goal will be to gain insights from those caught in the struggle for energy equity, the difficult choices they must make, and the complex, sometimes messy path they are trying to forge. In Adjuntas, students will engage with the staff of the award-winning community center, Casa Pueblo. This organization, led by Arturo Massol Deyá and his father, Alexis Massol Gonzalez, has united much of the community around environmental stewardship. Other learning opportunities might include visits to historical and cultural sites, interactions with local students, a solar installation, and conversations with community leaders in San Juan and Adjuntas.
This seminar counts as an experience required to complete the Energy Studies Minor capstone.
Course Enrollment and Online Application
Travel occurred over spring break, March 7-14, 2026.
Twelve students are selected to participate in this course. ND Energy pays all expenses. Notre Dame sophomores, juniors, and seniors are invited to apply, although preference will be given to Energy Studies Minors. No visas are required since Puerto Rico is part of the United States. Anyone who has participated in the past is not eligible. The application for Spring 2026 is now closed.
Continue Discovering
Renewable energy could be a critical solution for Puerto Ricans who went months without power after Hurricanes Maria and Irma. Learn more in an installment of "What Would You Fight For?"