Blake Coughenour

Renewable Energy Network Fellow
College of Optical Sciences

Blake Coughenour is interested in engineering for global change. With a background in physics and robotics, he came to Arizona to participate in the development of large telescopes for astronomy, but instead found a niche for applying optical technology to combat global warming. His research at the Steward Observatory Solar Laboratory focuses on developing optics for solar electricity at a cost lower than any other solar energy method, and competitive with fossil fuel generation. Through this work, Blake believes we can create utility-scale renewable energy that is mechanically robust, commercially upgradeable, and highly suitable for sun-rich regions around the world. Thisability to provide cheap renewable energy will reduce local dependence on fossil fuel energy sources and contribute to regional sustainability.

Accepted Scholar:

Accepted

CARSON SCHOLARS PROGRAM SPONSORED BY

Thomas R. Brown Family Foundation

College of Engineering 

College of Science Galileo Circle

Graduate College

Arizona Institute for Resilience

Agnese Nelms Haury Program in Environment & Social Justice

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences