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LEES History

ABOUT LEES
 

Origins and Objectives

 
Louisiana Energy Extension Service

The Louisiana Energy Extension Service (LEES) represents the evolution of a long-standing commitment by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette to support the state’s energy sector through research, education, and community outreach. Housed within the Energy Institute of Louisiana (EIL), one of the university’s premier applied research institutes, LEES is built upon decades of interdisciplinary expertise spanning engineering, environmental science, energy systems, and public engagement.

EIL itself was established to foster innovative, practical solutions to Louisiana’s energy and environmental challenges, bringing together faculty, researchers, and industry partners to advance technologies that are vital to the state’s economy and ecological resilience. Within this ecosystem, LEES serves as the public-facing extension arm dedicated to translating research and technical knowledge into real-world guidance for Louisiana’s citizens, municipalities, industries, and stakeholders.

Key Milestones

 
2021

Founding Louisiana's First Energy Extension Service

Originally launched as the C1 Energy Extension Service, the center was created to fill a statewide need for accessible, evidence-based information on emerging energy technologies, best practices, and resource management. The program focused on bridging the gap between academic research and on-the-ground implementation—helping communities understand new technologies, supporting businesses in improving energy efficiency, and providing a neutral scientific resource for decision-makers.

2024

Renaming and Statewide Expansion

Governor Jeff Landry officially re-designated the program as the Louisiana Energy Extension Service (LEES), signaling an expanded mission and renewed commitment to serving the state at a broader scale. Under the LEES name, the center operates as a statewide extension network, offering workshops, demonstrations, technical assistance, data resources, and applied research support.

Funding & Support

 

Jointly funded by the State of Louisiana, the Energy Institute of Louisiana, and stakeholder donations. This strong foundation ensures our services remain accessible, practical, and aligned with statewide priorities to support Louisiana’s energy workforce and communities.

State-Wide Extension Reach

 

Activities span renewable integration, process efficiency, grid resilience, clean technologies, permitting, and workforce development—collaborating with communities, regulatory agencies, industry partners, and researchers.

Looking Toward the Future

 

Rooted in its history yet forward-looking in its mission, the Louisiana Energy Extension Service stands as a vital connector between cutting-edge academic research and the everyday energy needs of Louisiana’s people. Through education, outreach, and applied innovation, LEES continues to support the state in building a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable energy future.

Funding & Acknowledgments

 

The Louisiana Energy Extension Service (LEES) is primarily funded via the State of Louisiana through legislative support approved by Gov. Jeff Landry, EIL-based funding, and donations from various industry stakeholders.

State of Louisiana
Energy Institute of Louisiana
Louisiana Energy Extension Service

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