The Caribbean Energy Efficiency Lighting Project has launched a competition for tertiary-level students to develop an innovative residential lamp that incorporates an energy efficient light source.

Post-secondary school students from across the region will have the opportunity to put their engineering and business skills to the test this year.

The UNDP/SIDS DOCK support program in conjunction with the OECS Commission and the Caribbean Science Foundation, has launched the first ever Caribbean Energy Efficiency Lighting Competition.

The contest, which was officially launched on June 5, will encourage participants to conceptualize, build and develop an innovative residential lamp that incorporates an energy efficient light source.

The competition is open to teams of students from tertiary institutions across Barbados and the OECS, with the top three teams sharing in a suite of prizes, including advanced computer systems, financial support to further develop their ideas, and a grant to support or develop renewable energy and energy efficiency programs in their respective institutions.

The competition which forms part of the Caribbean Energy Efficiency Lighting Project , has been designed to help increase awareness of the benefits of energy efficient technologies.

The first round of proposal judging will take place in June, after which selected teams will be invited to build a prototype in preparation for final judging in August.

The winners will be awarded US$2,500 to develop and expand their idea and business proposal, as well as have the opportunity to attend an international lighting conference. The tertiary institution from which the winning team is drawn will also receive a US$7,500 grant to assist in developing their energy efficient (EE) curriculum.

For competition details, www.caribbeanlightingproject.com.