Wisconsin Ag Connection - Conference Explores Renewable Energy Options

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Conference Explores Renewable Energy Options
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 05/02/2008

Is it possible to break away from dependence on traditional sources of energy such as oil and coal? What is the potential for doing so in the Chippewa Valley region? These questions and others are the focus of a conference to be held on May 12 at the Sleep Inn/29 Pines in Eau Claire on May 12. 'Renewable Energy Options: What's Possible in the Chippewa Valley?' will be the theme for sessions led by speakers from the University of Wisconsin-Extension and other state and national experts in the field of renewable energy.

According to County Agriculture Agent Jim Faust, the conference will look at renewable energy from the standpoints of both economic development and energy production. For example, sessions will include ways to increase jobs in the clean energy economy, as well as a discussion of collaborative anaerobic digesters led by Larry Krom, Focus on Energy.

Among the speakers, Gena Cooper from the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence will explain Wisconsin's goals for renewable energy and how they affect the Chippewa Valley. UW-Extension GIS specialist Matt Kures will talk about an online mapping system that inventories renewable energy resources across the state. Participants will learn how to take advantage of this tool to help understand an area's potential to produce alternative energy. David Carlson, SEH, will then outline what goes into a renewable energy feasibility study, regardless of the specific technology.

Also during the conference, Pete Kling, St. Croix County UW-Extension Community Development Educator, will guide a panel discussion on the regulatory framework for renewable energy development. The session will include a presentation by Herb Schweitzer, Schweitzer Energies, who will share what renewable energy site selectors are looking for using a recent project as a case study.

Bill Walker, Senior Public Policy Advisor, Office of the Secretary of Wisconsin Department of Agriculture will give a lunchtime keynote address discussing strategies for building tomorrow's renewable energy industry. The cost of the conference is $20 until May 7. After that date, the cost is $25 per person. To register, call 715-726-7950.

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