KENNESAW, Ga. | May 24, 2018

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded Kennesaw State University with a $69,183 People, Prosperity and the Planet (P3) grant. The grant will be used to develop a method of replacing power cables in aircrafts with wireless power transfer systems that are lighter and reduce the weight of the plane, which could reduce fuel consumption and improve air quality.

“These students are applying what they have learned in the classroom to create innovative solutions to environmental challenges,” said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. “These awards support the next generation of scientists and engineers in their commitment to environmental protection, while helping states, tribes, and local communities find solutions to their environmental issues.”

“These P3 students are tackling some of our most pressing and complex environmental issues,” said Regional Administrator Trey Glenn. "The innovative research funded today will help us better protect human health and the environment. ”

“It is an honor to receive the P3 Phase II grant from the EPA, which will allow more undergraduate students to participate in research activity where they can apply what they have learned in the classroom towards this challenging research project beyond the feasibility stage and further into implementation and commercialization stages,” said Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering Hoseon Lee. “This comprehensive academic experience will help produce well-rounded, exceptional graduates, who can see the big picture, and understand the connection between classroom education, research, development, and business that aligns with the goals of the P3 program."

Nationally, EPA awarded more than $557,000 in funding for eight student teams through the P3 Grants Program during Phase II. These teams, made up of college students from across the country, are developing sustainable technologies to solve current environmental and public health challenges.

Other P3 Phase II winners include Montclair State University; Clarkson University; University of Cincinnati; Texas Woman’s University; California State University, Chico; Butte College; University of California, Riverside.

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.