Frequently Asked Questions
The LSU Energy Institute is committed to advancing cutting-edge energy research, fostering industry collaboration, and creating solutions for the people of Louisiana. Here, you’ll soon find answers to common questions, but if you need additional information, never hesitate to reach out at energy@lsu.edu.
The Louisiana Legislature created the Center for Energy Studies (CES) in 1982 to provide trusted, non-advocacy energy research for policymakers, citizens, and industry. Since then, LSU’s energy and geoscience programs have expanded significantly through research and partnerships with industry, government, and communities, including new statutory responsibilities under Act 727 of 2024 and Act 458 of 2025. The LSU Energy Institute represents the natural evolution of LSU’s Scholarship First Agenda where energy is a top-five priority for research—bringing together LSU’s energy and geoscience expertise into a unified institute to better serve the people of Louisiana.
Future Use of Energy in Louisiana (FUEL) is an independent, statewide initiative supported by the largest National Science Foundation grant in history, $160 million. While led by LSU, FUEL serves the entire state and has its own governance. LSU faculty were part of the original NSF application, and collaboration continues today. FUEL and the Energy Institute are distinct but complementary, showcasing LSU’s leadership in building partnerships that deliver national and statewide impact.
By consolidating and coordinating resources and research under one institute, LSU can more effectively meet its legislative mandates, support policymakers and the energy industry, and provide Louisiana’s citizens with clear and reliable insights into energy and geosciences. This means stronger support for state agencies, improved data and research for communities, and more efficient use of public and philanthropic resources to create solutions for the future of energy in Louisiana and the world.
The LSU Energy Institute has six core focus areas: Energy Research & Development, Energy Information & Data, Energy Education & Outreach, Energy Policy, Energy Innovation, and the Louisiana Geological Survey (LGS). Together, these efforts advanc statewide geological mapping and public energy data platforms, as well as teacher training, policy analysis, and the development of new energy technologies.