EDF Renewables has created new annual scholarships for Canino School of Engineering Technology students. Pictured (l to r) are SUNY Canton Electrical Construction and Maintenance students Gregory R. Sthilaire of North Bangor and Daniel W. Manor of Potsdam installing solar panels on the college's solar roof simulator. EDF Renewables recently sponsored the energy-producing photovoltaic training structure. SUNY Canton Photo.

CANTON – A market-leading independent power producer and service provider with ties to the Canton community has become the latest company to invest in SUNY Canton's students.

EDF Renewables has created new annual scholarships for Canino School of Engineering Technology students. Beginning next year, four students from the Electrical Construction and Maintenance program will receive $3,500 each to offset their educational costs.

"EDF Renewables' Rich Road Solar project is proud to partner with SUNY Canton on their demonstration solar photovoltaic array and deliver the benefits of energy sustainability to the University and aid in the development of the local clean energy workforce," said Jack Honor, Director of Development at EDF Renewables. "We are grateful to have SUNY Canton as a local partner in achieving New York State's renewable energy mandates of 70% renewable energy by 2030 and look forward to collaborating to benefit Canton."

The company pledged a total of $68,000 over four years, which includes scholarship funding and $12,000 to help the college complete its solar roof simulator. The educational structure allows students to install and wire working photovoltaic panels.

According to School of Engineering Technology Dean Michael J. Newtown, the donation bolsters the college's mission to promote environmental sustainability and provide students with the best education possible.

"EDF Renewables has significantly impacted the education of our students, allowing them to gain hands-on experience with the latest energy technologies," Newtown said. "This donation helps us expand our cutting-edge learning environment that helps prepare our students for modern sustainability-focused careers."

The company worked through the SUNY Canton College Foundation to create the annual scholarship and its donation. The college's scholarship committee will determine the recipients of the scholarships for students who enroll or are planning to enroll in the Electrical Construction and Maintenance program and who demonstrate financial need. Incoming first-year students are encouraged to apply for admission into the program if they are interested in being considered for the EDF Renewables Annual Scholarship.