UT in line for $1.5 million energy funds Nov. 27, 2001 By Kimyette Finley The University of Toledo is in line for $1.5 million from the U.S. Department of Defense Advanced Research Program to provide a major expansion for UT's photovoltaic energy initiative. Dr. Alvin Compaan, professor of physics and astronomy and director of the Center of Materials Science and Engineering, and Dr. Xunming Deng, associate professor of physics and astronomy, along with other researchers at UT, are working toward further industrial innovation in thin-films and coatings. Photovoltaics - also known as solar cells - are semiconductor devices that convert the energy of sunlight directly into electricity without the aid of moving parts (other than electrons). Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur helped secure the funding for UT's high tech energy initiative. "The Department of Defense reviews all of the projects nationally, and also within the Congress, we have our own defense intelligence advisors, and they make very calculated decisions on which technology the country needs. This is a high priority area for energy independence that was selected. The work that's being done here...can really make a contribution to the nation and the world," said Kaptur after a press conference announcing the funding. The proposal was passed by the House Appropriations Committee and will be included in the final bill for the President's signature in early December. Compaan said the final details are still being worked out, but the funds will most likely be used for student support and the costs of doing the research. Numerous uses have already been identified for thin-film coatings and solar cells, including issues of national need in electrical power generation, clean transportation and biotechnology. "We're trying to develop a newer technology that can be transferred to industries so they can make a product at a lower cost," said Deng. To report any problems with this page please e-mail information to utpr@utnet.utoledo.edu