Advancing Interdisciplinary Energy Research

Providing objective, data-driven analysis and expertise on energy issues in Louisiana and beyond.

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Our Core Areas

Building on more than 40 years of trusted energy analysis, the LSU Energy Institute serves as the university's focal point for energy-related research, analysis, education, and engagement. The Institute brings together faculty, data, and expertise from across the LSU campus through seven interconnected core areas that reflect the Institute's commitment to rigorous analysis, high-quality research, accessible information, and meaningful engagement with stakeholders across Louisiana and beyond.

Energy Policy

Provides independent, non-advocacy analysis and expertise to inform energy policy decisions for Louisiana's legislature, government agencies, and regulatory bodies. This core area delivers rigorous research on energy legislation, regulatory impacts, and policy frameworks.

Energy Research, Development & Demonstration

Coordinates interdisciplinary research activities and demonstration-scale projects that bridge research and real-world application. This core area addresses challenges from carbon capture to energy economics while documenting the Institute's substantial research legacy.

Energy Education & Outreach

Develops educational programs, industry partnerships, and community engagement initiatives to support Louisiana's energy workforce and advance energy literacy. Connects academic expertise with industry needs and public understanding through accessible, research-informed programs including Energy Fundamentals and K–12 partnerships.

Energy Information & Data

Serves as Louisiana's official energy data repository under state legislative mandate (Act 331 of the 2026 Regular Session), working in cooperation with the Louisiana Office of Energy. Provides comprehensive, transparent databases on oil and gas production, electricity, energy employment, and economic metrics with emphasis on methodological rigor and replicability.

Energy Innovation

Advances the development and commercialization of energy technologies through industry partnerships and collaborative research. Built on a $25 million gift from Shell and integrated with FUEL, this area supports deployable, use-inspired research in carbon capture, hydrogen, grid resilience, and next-generation energy systems.

Energy Law

Examines legal and regulatory frameworks shaping Louisiana's energy landscape through collaboration with the LSU Law School, including the Mineral Law Institute and the John P. Laborde Energy Law Center. Provides research-driven analysis on evolving energy regulations and their implications for communities, industry, and policymakers.

Louisiana Geological Survey

Founded in 1934, the Louisiana Geological Survey serves as the state's official geological survey under R.S. 17:1492. LGS provides geological research, mapping, and resource assessment services with over 90 years of expertise, maintaining core and well log repositories and delivering critical geological data for Louisiana's natural resource management.

Our Impact & Service to Louisiana

40+
years

of energy research expertise, building on the legacy of the LSU Center for Energy Studies established in 1982

90+
years

of geological survey services as Louisiana's official geological survey, founded in 1934

40 plus years of trusted energy research expertise timeline

90 plus years of Louisiana Geological Survey services legacy

Trusted, non-advocacy energy analysis informing policy decisions for Louisiana's government, regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders, and communities through rigorous, objective research

Non-advocacy energy analysis supporting Louisiana government policy decisions

Educational programs and stakeholder engagement supporting Louisiana's energy future through Energy Fundamentals, K-12 partnerships, industry collaboration, and statewide outreach

News from the Institute

Stay up to date with the latest energy research, publications, and events happening at the LSU Energy Institute. Visit the Energy Institute News page for more updates and articles.

Energy Innovation

LSU Research Associate Opportunities Supporting Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy

Louisiana State University is hiring several limited-term Research Associate positions (18–24 months) to support applied energy, natural resources, technical, regulatory, and policy work with the Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy. Roles span analytical research, energy information, geology, reservoir engineering, and energy law, offering hands-on experience and career development opportunities.

Energy Education & Outreach

Energy Fundamentals 2026 Is Now Accepting Applications

Energy Fundamentals 2026 is now accepting applications! Energy Fundamentals is a weeklong course designed to provide an overview of the U.S. energy sector. Participants will be exposed to the history, science, and economics of producing and consuming energy.

Energy Research

Institute Releases Report on Economic Implications of Carbon Capture and Sequestration Projects for Louisiana

The analysis evaluates potential economic activity associated with CCS projects using publicly announced developments and related infrastructure requirements. Based on the modeling framework described in the report, the authors estimate the investment, employment, and economic output tied to these projects.

Stay Informed & Get Involved

The LSU Energy Institute welcomes researchers, students, policymakers, and industry leaders to collaborate with us. Together, we can advance energy innovation, deliver independent, policy-relevant insights, and develop practical solutions that strengthen Louisiana's position in an evolving energy landscape.