UC Davis was honored with this year's Powering Prosperity award, which is sponsored by PG&E. The award recognizes UC Davis's contributions to the economic vitality of the Sacramento region and the university's leadership role fostering the research and development of strategies and policies, as well as products and services, that improve sustainability and energy efficiency.
Much of UC Davis’ success can be traced to strategies developed through its Energy Efficiency Center (EEC), California Lighting Technology Center, Western Cooling Efficiency Center, Center for Water-Energy Efficiency, and Plug-in Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Research Center. CLTC was among the first of these UC Davis centers to serve as a hub for research and development, industry collaboration and innovation, and entrepreneurship. UC Davis was also recognized for its West Village development, the largest planned zero net energy community in the U.S.
EEC Director Nicole Woolsey Biggart accepted the award on March 19 at this year's Salute to New Industry and Business Outlook event. The annual event is presented by the Sacramento Area Commerce and Trade Organization (SACTO) in partnership with Pacific Gas and Electric Company and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District.