The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Collegiate Wind Competition (CWC) helps college students prepare for jobs in the wind and renewable energy workforce through real-world experiences with wind energy technology, project development, finance, communications, and outreach.
By participating in the competition, schools and students connect with wind energy experts and industry contacts, enhancing schools’ curriculum offerings and strengthening students’ professional networks.
The CWC has joined the U.S. Department of Energy’s American-Made network of prizes and competitions. Visit our new American-Made page to learn more about the CWC and the American-Made program.
Find out how you can get involved in the competition.
About the 2023 Competition
Thirteen competing teams and seven learn-along teams gathered at the University of Colorado Boulder's Balch Fieldhouse in Boulder, Colorado, on May 15–19, 2023, for the 10th annual Collegiate Wind Competition. After testing a prototype wind turbine and presenting their work to panels of wind energy experts, Kansas State University claimed first place overall.
CWC 2023 called on teams to develop solutions to the siting, development, and outreach challenges associated with fixed-bottom offshore wind energy projects. Over the course of the school year, participating teams designed and built prototype fixed-bottom offshore wind turbines, created offshore wind energy project development plans, collaborated with members of the wind energy industry and local media, and raised wind energy awareness in their communities.
About the 2024 Competition
DOE is now accepting applications to CWC 2024. Apply to CWC 2024 today!
Elements of the Competition
Turbine Prototype Contest & Turbine Testing Contest
Design, build, and present a unique, wind-driven power system based on market research and test the wind turbine in an on-site wind tunnel.
Project Development Contest
Research wind resource data, transmission infrastructure, and environmental factors to create a site plan and financial analysis for a hypothetical wind farm.
Connection Creation Contest
Partner with wind industry professionals, raise awareness of wind energy in your local community, and work with local media to promote your team’s accomplishments.
Stay informed about competition updates, news, and events.
News
Collegiate Wind Competition Photos
Collegiate Wind Competition 2023 photos coming soon!
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