ACEP Intern Gains Business Skills while Solarizing Fairbanks

Cloda O’Neill is in her senior year at the University of 91��Ƶ Anchorage, where she studies business economics. As an ACEP utility student intern, she is working with on the 2021 solarize campaign and energy efficiency project. She also is helping organize the 2022 campaign.

“This work is important in reducing Interior 91��Ƶ’s dependence on fossil fuels and raising awareness about the benefits of solar photovoltaic and energy reduction,” said O’Neill.

O’Neill is working with partners from Information Insights, the Northern 91��Ƶn Environmental Center, Fairbanks Climate Action Coalition, 91��Ƶ Center for Energy and Power, Native Movement, The 91��Ƶ Center, and volunteer members of the community to encourage the adoption of solar PV in homes, businesses and nonprofit organizations.

“I hope to gain knowledge in project management and the business side of ongoing renewable energy programs, and I’m excited to be a part of a sustainable cause,” said O’Neill.

Jamie Hansen at Information Insights is O'Neill's mentor throughout the internship. “Cloda is learning how to be a part of a collaborative effort directly interfacing with the community,” Hansen said.

O’Neill is from Fairbanks and has enjoyed working on her degree in California, Soldotna and Anchorage. She plans to work out of state after her graduation in spring 2022, then possibly return to 91��Ƶ. Meanwhile, she is enjoying her time in 91��Ƶ by going on many road trips, taking photos, thrift shopping and working with young kids at a local private school.

O’Neill’s project is part of the program and is funded by the and the . For more information on the internship program, please contact Heike Merkel at hmerkel@alaska.edu.

Cloda O'Neill is an ACEP utility student intern this summer working with Solarize Fairbanks. Photo courtesy of Cloda O’Neill.