“Most of the MUM student body are very conscious individuals and they believe that there is a different and more conscious way to live in this world,” said Amy Van Beek.

MUM alumni attend Paris Climate Summit
by Maharishi University of Management, Fairfield, Iowa, USA, Achievements
19 January 2016

Maharishi University of Management (MUM) alumni Amy and Troy Van Beek visited the 21st Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Paris last December, representing Ideal Energy. Amy and Troy were invited by the National Resource Defense Council (NRDC) as part of the Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2) delegation of fifteen business owners.

Amy and Troy founded Ideal Energy in 2009 with the mission to drive the change towards sustainable energy and help businesses and individuals invest in clean energy and save money by installing solar arrays. Since 2009, Ideal Energy has become one of the largest solar companies in Iowa, with 36 employees.

Amy and Troy became involved with the NRDC and E2 a few years ago and have been supporting clean energy policy in the U.S. by telling their success stories and those of their clients. Their mission at the Paris summit was to show the world that businesses and investors support action on climate change because it is good for the economy and the environment. “Solar energy is one of the fastest growing industries in the country,” said Amy. “People want to participate.”

While Amy is working with the Environmental Protection Agency in Iowa on the state’s Clean Power Plan proposal, Troy has visited the White House several times to meet with senators and senior presidential advisors. Troy, who served in the U.S. Navy for nine years, feels fortunate to be involved with national security through renewable energy and resource security.

“Most wars are fought over lack of resources,” said Troy. “With renewable energy, we are creating an abundance of energy. We don’t have to be in a situation of lack, and this is changing the politics of the world.”

Ideal Energy’s success is driven by the Van Beeks’ dedication to clean energy and the environment. They are proud that MUM alumni comprise 50 percent of their workforce. “Most of the MUM student body are very conscious individuals and they believe that there is a different and more conscious way to live in this world,” said Amy.

“The idealism that MUM has is exactly why we started the company,” Troy said. “Sustainability is the manifestation of the consciousness the University develops.”

Watch a video of Troy’s story here.

© Copyright 2016 Maharishi University of Management