In 2025, universities worldwide are working to reduce their carbon footprint using renewable energy sources. This shift is not only about reducing emissions; it aims to benefit students through education, improved health and well-being, and the establishment of cost-effective energy systems that offer the most bang for their buck. The transition to renewable energy fits naturally with the vision outlined in Marquette University’s Strategic Plan 2031, which provides a framework of Marquette’s values and goals.
The two pillars, Care for Our World and Healthy Campus, emphasize stewardship of environmental health and a thriving student community. This article breaks down three major renewable energy sources: solar, geothermal, and hydropower, and considers their accessibility and potential benefits for Marquette’s campus.  The goal of this is to educate the public on different sustainable energy avenues to strengthen understanding of how green energy works and can apply to a sustainable future for our planet and campus.
Solar energy is one of the most well-known and accessible renewable energy sources. This form of renewable energy works by converting sunlight into electrical energy through photovoltaic panels or through mirrors that concentrate solar radiation. Solar energy is converted to alternating current electricity using an inverter, allowing it to power buildings.
Excess solar energy that is not utilized can be sold back to the grid, further cutting energy costs. On college campuses, solar energy provides clear environmental and financial benefits. Solar panels cut energy costs, reduces the carbon footprint of the institution, and provides educational opportunities for students. Currently, Marquette utilizes two solar arrays: the 313 Menomonee building and another on top of the Engineering Hall. These installations prove to be a great start for Marquette’s switch to alternative energy sources, demonstrating the university’s ability to implement sustainable energy.
Some may have concerns about snowfall in Milwaukee. However, designs at northern universities such as the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, show that solar remains effective in snowy conditions. Increasing our solar array on campus can enhance sustainable educational opportunities, promote student engagement with sustainable initiatives, and inspire change among the student body.
Geothermal energy, a renewable source for heating and cooling, is another promising sustainable energy source. This technology uses heat pumps to collect low-grade thermal energy, concentrate it, and transport it to where it is useful via closed-loop piping systems that circulate liquid through deep wells or horizontal trenches. In the winter, this energy source brings stored underground heat into buildings.
Currently, the university buys thermal energy, or steam, from a local energy supplier. In the summer, the heat pumps draw excess heat away and deposit it underground. Marquette has faculty members exploring the use of geothermal energy, contributing valuable research into the implementation of this energy source on campus.
The benefits of geothermal energy are substantial. Through the utilization of energy from sewer lines instead of fossil fuels, the university could reduce energy consumption by 25%, significantly cutting its carbon footprint and energy costs. Despite the expensive initial upfront costs, various universities, including Ball State and Bard College, have successfully switched to geothermal energy, demonstrating cost savings associated with the transition.
Hydropower is a form of renewable power that generates electricity using the natural movement of water. Traditionally, hydropower has relied on dams. However, the use of smaller scale “micro-hydropower” systems have been on the rise. These systems use flowing streams or rivers to spin power-generating turbines.
Milwaukee, home to Lake Michigan and our three rivers, presents interesting opportunities for small-scale hydropower research and experimentation. While Marquette University is not directly located on a river, the local water sources could support academic research initiatives. The University of Notre Dame, which has successfully implemented a hydroelectric facility on a nearby river, serves as a powerful example of what this could look like for an urban campus.
The implementation of alternative energy sources on college campuses provides comprehensive environmental, economic, and social benefits. Investing in sustainable energy systems can create a healthier campus through the reduction of carbon emissions.
Through establishing and expanding current sustainable energy infrastructure, Marquette can serve as a model of caring for its people and shared environment, embracing its values of cura personalis and cura apostolica. Most importantly, the exploration of these potential energy sources encourages students to become more aware of sustainability and its importance to Marquette’s campus.
The intensification of climate change calls for increased education and exploration around alternative energy sources to help establish a resilient, sustainable campus and world.
This story was written by guest opinion columnist Maddie Reyering. She can be reached at m[email protected]
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