OCI Energy Makes $250,000 Investment In UTSA Students’ Renewable Energy Futures

OCI Energy, a top developer, owner, and operator of large-scale solar and battery energy storage projects, proudly presented a $250,000 check to The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) today. The funds will support scholarships and internships for students pursuing careers in renewable energy.

Sabah Bayatli, President of OCI Energy, stated “As a proud UTSA alumnus, it’s an honor to invest in the future of renewable energy by supporting the next generation of engineers, innovators, and policymakers. This initiative aligns with our mission to power a cleaner and brighter future, and reflects our commitment to add to the wellbeing and growth of communities where we operate across the U.S.”

OCI Energy’s commitment to community stewardship was a key part of its proposal to develop a 120 MW / 480 MWh battery energy storage project in partnership with CPS Energy, the largest municipally owned utility in the U.S. The two companies announced in early December that they had signed a long-term storage capacity agreement (SCA) for the Alamo City Energy Storage System (ESS).

Under the SCA, OCI Energy will take charge of developing, financing, building, and owning the project, while CPS Energy will manage its operations to meet the electricity needs of San Antonio. This project is a significant step forward in CPS Energy’s long-term sustainability plan, improving grid reliability, boosting economic growth, and supporting San Antonio’s clean energy objectives. Rudy Garza, President & CEO of CPS Energy, joined representatives from the UTSA Margie and Bill Klesse College of Engineering & Integrated Design (Klesse College) and the UTSA Alumni Association for today’s check presentation.

“CPS Energy is committed to building a more sustainable future, and partnerships like these are essential to that mission OCI Energy’s investment in UTSA students is aligned with our Vision 2027 objective of Community Partnership & Growth and empowers our community by supporting the next generation of energy leaders who will continue guiding us to a cleaner energy future,” said Rudy D. Garza, President & CEO of CPS Energy.

Eric Brey, Dean of the Klesse College of Engineering & Integrated Design, stated “This is an incredible investment from OCI Energy in Klesse College. The scholarships are critical financial support, and the internships provide students real work experience and professional development in the field of renewable energy. The opportunity for full-time employment after graduation brings our partnership full circle.”

Russell Wagner, Executive Director of the UTSA Alumni Association, commented, “OCI Energy has always been a shining example of hiring UTSA graduates, and the success that can come with that. They are a company on the rise, and we are humbled by their willingness to not only provide critical support in the form of scholarships, but to prepare students for the next phase of their lives through internships. This is a truly special day for UTSA.”

Starting in the fall of 2025 and continuing through 2029, Klesse College will offer two $10,000 scholarships each year to students pursuing engineering degrees with an emphasis on renewable energy. Furthermore, the UTSA Alumni Association will grant one $10,000 scholarship annually to students majoring in Business Management, Economics, or Political Science who have a strong interest in renewable energy. OCI Energy has also committed to hiring UTSA undergraduate and graduate students as interns, with the goal of offering them full-time positions after graduation.

OCI Energy’s support for UTSA highlights its commitment to fostering new talent in the renewable energy field. With the growing demand for energy solutions in San Antonio and across the country, it’s essential to have a strong pipeline of skilled professionals. This partnership helps create opportunities for aspiring individuals to contribute to the future of energy security.