The Caribbean region has a high dependency on imported oil for its energy needs which cannot be sustained. The Department of Physics at the UWI, Mona Campus has long realized the need for the use of Alternative Sources of Energy in the energy mix. In an attempt to disseminate information, and research and train upcoming generations in Alternative Energy technologies the Department of Physics introduced an undergraduate major in Alternative Energy in 2006. Enrolment has doubled since inception. The programme includes courses in Wind and Hydro Power, Solar Power, Climate Physics, and integrating Alternative Energy with the energy grid, as well as appropriate hands-on lab components. In addition the Department has an MPhil programme in Physics with a concentration on research in Solar, Wind, and Hydro Technologies.

The picture shows current undergraduate students Tamar Richards and Sanjay Simmonds, MPhil candidate in Solar Power Darlene Field, and lecturer in Alternative Energy Dr. Dharmaratne Amarakoon. The background showcases the solar panels and meteorological instruments used in the programme.