American Energy Data Challenge

Hello Alchemist Club Members, 

Below is the information for an energy idea contest. As you know, our theme this year is alternative energy. This contest is a great opportunity to learn about the energy problem. Check the website below for more information. I have posted the contest information below the weblink.

http://energychallenge.energy.gov/

THE ENERGY IDEAS CONTEST #1

This challenge will focus on generating new ideas for using energy data to create high-value products, applications, services and research. We will award $10,000 in prizes for the best idea for using an existing Department of Energy dataset, the best idea for a "wish list dataset" that would be extremely valuable if it existed, and the best "killer idea" for a new energy-related application or service. The deadline to submit an idea for Contest #1 is November 29, 2013. From December 2, 2013 - December 13, 2013 the public will be invited to review all of the ideas to cast their votes for the best ideas in each category. At the same time, our panel of expert judges will review the submissions. Prizes will be awarded based on the judges' selections, and a popular choice prize will be awarded based on public votes. Have more questions? View the complete rules or check out our Frequently Asked Questions.

Choose one of three topics for your submission

• Best Idea for An Existing Dataset: (Prize Pot: $4,000) 
  Drawing from a list of existing Department of Energy public data resources, identify the dataset you think is most valuable. Describe why you think this data is valuable, and provide ideas for how the data could be used to help solve a problem. Contestants can also describe any ideas for improving the existing dataset (i.e. providing an API, or offering the data in a different format, etc.).
• Best Idea for a "Wish List" Dataset: (Prize Pot: $2,000) 
  Contestants should describe the energy dataset that is on their "wish list" — a dataset that, if it existed, would be extremely valuable. Entries should describe what the dataset should contain, its ideal format, and how it could be used to solve a problem better than what is possible using currently available data.
• Best "Killer Idea" for an Energy-focused Application or Service: (Prize Pot: $4,000) 
  Every "killer app" starts with a "killer idea"; an elegant solution to a pressing real-world problem. In this campaign, we're seeking these "killer ideas." You don't need to be a software developer to identify a great app idea. All you need is a good understanding of problem you're trying to solve. Ideas should include a clear problem statement, a description of the solution, and should identify the datasets (if applicable) required to make the application a reality.