Our Projects
The Duke Undergraduate Energy and Climate Club aims to explore the real-world energy and climate sectors, engage with the greater energy and climate community, and help solve the critical energy, climate, and sustainability challenges of today.
Each semester, we collaborate with companies and organizations in the energy, climate, and sustainability fields to offer pro-bono consulting projects for students.
Through these projects, we connect students with industry professionals, helping students build real-world skills while also delivering results for our partners.
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The projects program is being led by Ben Verlander and Maya Khodabackchian this spring. Feel free to reach out at bpv5@duke.edu or mek73@duke.edu.
Spring 2025 Projects
This Spring, Duke Energy and Climate Club is excited to introduce a new cohort of projects in collaboration with the energy, climate, and sustainability industry. Being part of a DECC project team is an amazing opportunity to make a real-world impact, gain invaluable knowledge and perspectives, and have the experience of working with energy and climate industry leaders and enthusiastic peers.​






Third Derivative
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This project will analyze small modular reactors and non-fusion next-generation nuclear technologies, such as thorium fuel cycles, to assess their potential role in the future energy landscape. The analysis will focus on critical aspects, including technology readiness levels (TRL), levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), scalability of deployment, and fiscal incentives available for development and implementation. The insights gained will inform the creation of a 30-minute PowerPoint investment thesis, providing a comprehensive overview and strategic recommendations for stakeholders interested in advancing or investing in these technologies.
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NextEra
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This project will research Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) incentives across U.S. states, analyzing which states have implemented storage incentives and evaluating their effectiveness from economic and development perspectives. The analysis will identify the most successful state policies and the factors driving their success. Findings will inform a detailed report with recommendations for states looking to implement or improve storage-related targets and policies.
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Marble
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This project will provide portfolio support for Marble by conducting in-depth market research to guide the commercial growth of its portfolio companies, which range from Pre-Seed to post-Seed stages. The research will focus on understanding the nuances of each company’s commercial segments to build a comprehensive knowledge base. These insights will inform strategic recommendations for portfolio companies, aid in identifying new opportunity areas for company building, and support the recruitment of new founders-in-residence and investment decisions. The work will contribute to Marble’s mission of addressing climate challenges across industrials, energy, agriculture, and carbon removal.
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REV Energy
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This project will help REV Energy Ventures implement the Green Button App to simplify utility data sharing for solar, storage, and EV charger installations at multifamily buildings, hotels, and resorts. The focus will include identifying the technical and development requirements for integrating the app with REV’s systems, understanding the specific requirements of the three major California utilities, and ensuring compatibility with REV’s website. The project will involve developing and implementing the necessary programming, followed by thorough debugging to ensure seamless operation.
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Lukera
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This project will support Lukera Energy in developing a go-to-market strategy for its technology that converts greenhouse gases into clean fuels and chemicals. The focus will include analyzing the current methanol industry, mapping the value chain, identifying key players and pain points, and assessing competitors' value propositions and risks. The final deliverable will be a 5-10 page research report with figures, summarizing market research, competitive analysis, and value chain insights to recommend a comprehensive strategy for short- and long-term market opportunities.
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Past Partners

Case Studies
Looking to partner?
Please see this document for a detailed introduction on project organization and application process. Don't hesitate to reach out to us to discuss potential collaborations!