UTRGV, NVTX Energy, sign Memorandum of Understanding

MCALLEN, Texas – UT-Rio Grande Valley has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with NVTX Energy at the university’s headquarters inside Rio Bank’s HQ in McAllen.

The MOU allows for research collaboration aimed at advancing energy solutions and fostering innovation in battery development, advanced manufacturing, and energy storage.

Signing the agreement for UTRGV was Dr. Can Saygin, senior vice president for Research and Dean of the Graduate College. Saygin said the collaboration will bring together university researchers and industry experts to collectively solve technical challenges, provide unique economic development opportunities for the Valley region and importantly, engage and train UTRGV students.

“This collaboration represents why we think of ourselves as a Regional Research University. By combining our expertise, we are determined to move forward with specific actions that will create significant interest and opportunities for our community,” Saygin said.

Signing the agreement for NVTX was the company’s chief commercial officer, Lt. Col. (Ret) Warren “Bum” Rapp. Rapp said developing advanced technologies for energy storage solutions is critical to energy resilience in the United States, particularly in the South Texas region where power outages are expected due to extreme weather conditions. 

“One of the things that has fostered our relationship is the support from Dr. James Li and Dr. Saygin. They ensure that our work not only advances technology but also provides jobs and helps UTRGV achieve its goal of tier one status. And that is what we are looking for,” Rapp said.

The Rio Grande Guardian interviewed both Saygin and Rapp at the conclusion of the signing ceremony.

Here is a video recording of the interview with Rapp:

Here is a video recording of the interview with Saygin:

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