Statement of Purpose for Research
Broad Overview
The substantial use of petroleum as an energy source is leading to its inevitable depletion. In addition, petroleum pollution is spreading as
catastrophic disasters like the BP's Gulf Coast Oil Spill in April 2010. The dangers associated with the use of nuclear power need to be considered as well with accidents like Chernobyl and Japan's nuclear plant's meltdown in the wake of the tsunami. Essentially, we need to begin utilizing alternative, renewable energy sources such as solar energy in order to minimize these tragedies and the diminishing availability of fossil fuels.
catastrophic disasters like the BP's Gulf Coast Oil Spill in April 2010. The dangers associated with the use of nuclear power need to be considered as well with accidents like Chernobyl and Japan's nuclear plant's meltdown in the wake of the tsunami. Essentially, we need to begin utilizing alternative, renewable energy sources such as solar energy in order to minimize these tragedies and the diminishing availability of fossil fuels.
Overview of Local Issue or Problem
The local issue concerning solar power is Rhode Island's efforts to increase the amount of "smarter" and "greener" alternatives to fossil fuel-powered energy. Many buildings in the state have begun to install solar panels into their structure, and thus are improving their ecological footprint while encouraging other organizations to do the same. The local issue is similar to the national issue of petroleum over-usage and impending supply shortage. Solar power will be able to mitigate and minimize the environmental issues created by use of fuel and nuclear power. For example, air pollution caused by the emission of fossil fuels for heating and operating a major corporation can be greatly reduced through the implementation of solar power. One additional concern that must be taken into account is consumers' hesitancy and uncertainty towards adopting this new technology. It is important to recognize that implementation of this energy strategy is beneficial to the university in terms of public perception and civic duty. Furthermore, it will serve as an educational template for other organizations that look to follow in our ecologically-considerate footsteps.
Plan of Attack for Studying the Problem
Our plan of action includes various types of sampling and testing. We plan to implement surveys that encompass various demographic sectors of our community. These sectors include students, town residents, Bryant University officials and professors. Before we create and implement these surveys, we will engage in intensive and comprehensive research concerning cost, interest, structure, and comparisons of solar energy. After this research is completed we will be able to create differentiated surveys that cater to the interests and demographics of each sector while answering similar questions across the board. When we receive our feedback, we will either restructure our plan or implement a petition to try and get solar panels on buildings at Bryant University. During our petition we will develop three strategies (Plan A, B and C) of mapping of solar panels on the University campus. From here, we will be able to promote and market the alternative energy by a cohesive marketing strategy of campus/green or environmentally friendly campaigning by word of mouth and website promotion.
Deliverables to be Generated by our Team
The follow will be created by our team:
Four different surveys, an in-depth presentation, a marketing plan, results report with charts, feedback documentation, and a strategic website as a tool to increase our validity in the market.
Four different surveys, an in-depth presentation, a marketing plan, results report with charts, feedback documentation, and a strategic website as a tool to increase our validity in the market.