An announcement from Wisconsin Environment:
State Representative Gordon Hintz and Mayor Frank Tower will discuss plans for clean energy and conservation in Oshkosh and Northeast WI followed by a panel of experts from local environmental and business groups on how Northeastern Wisconsin can benefit from a clean energy economy.
WHAT: Wisconsin's Clean Energy Economy Forum
WHEN: Wednesday, March 4th 7pm
WHERE: UW Oshkosh Reeve Memorial Union Rm. 307
748 Algoma Blvd.
Oshkosh, WI 54901
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Tax credits help fuel interest in alternative energies
From an article by Malavika Jagannathan in the Green Bay Press Gazette:
The promise of tax credits and savings could persuade more people to tap into alternative energy sources for their homes, businesses and cars in the coming years.
"People who have gas or fuel oil want to get away from it," said Rick Mccutchin, president and owner of Alternate Energys Inc. in Wrightstown. "Now with this stimulus package, if people know about (the tax credits), I believe they will flock to alternative sources."
Mccutchin's company originally installed conventional heating and cooling systems, offering geothermal systems as an alternative.
About two to three years ago, the company did about half and half.
Today they only install geothermal systems, which extracts and exchanges the earth's heat, providing either cooler or warmer temperatures inside a building.
Last year the company did about 64 installations — about 70 percent in existing homes and 30 percent in new homes — but Mccutchin expects more to come his way this year, partially thanks to the increase in tax credits as outlined in the stimulus package.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 — the stimulus bill signed into law by President Barack Obama — included a number of changes to the energy efficiency tax credits. Federal tax credits for energy efficiency improvements have been raised from 10 percent to 30 percent, and caps on certain tax credits such as installing efficient windows and furnaces have been eliminated.
For a $20,000 geothermal system, a 30 percent tax credit would put it in the same cost range as a conventional heating and cooling system, Mccutchin said.
This stuff is not inexpensive," said Guy Fortin of Lake Michigan Wind & Sun in Sturgeon Bay. "Anything they can do to incentivize this helps."
If the cost of a solar electric system is $50,000, that could be cut in half when the 30 percent federal tax credits are combined with tax incentives from the state, Fortin explains.
The other attractiveness of renewable energy is its cleanliness when compared with fossil fuels, said Andy Williams, co-founder of Manitowoc-based GreenSky Energetics Inc., which installs solar thermal water heaters and solar forced air systems.
The promise of tax credits and savings could persuade more people to tap into alternative energy sources for their homes, businesses and cars in the coming years.
"People who have gas or fuel oil want to get away from it," said Rick Mccutchin, president and owner of Alternate Energys Inc. in Wrightstown. "Now with this stimulus package, if people know about (the tax credits), I believe they will flock to alternative sources."
Mccutchin's company originally installed conventional heating and cooling systems, offering geothermal systems as an alternative.
About two to three years ago, the company did about half and half.
Today they only install geothermal systems, which extracts and exchanges the earth's heat, providing either cooler or warmer temperatures inside a building.
Last year the company did about 64 installations — about 70 percent in existing homes and 30 percent in new homes — but Mccutchin expects more to come his way this year, partially thanks to the increase in tax credits as outlined in the stimulus package.
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 — the stimulus bill signed into law by President Barack Obama — included a number of changes to the energy efficiency tax credits. Federal tax credits for energy efficiency improvements have been raised from 10 percent to 30 percent, and caps on certain tax credits such as installing efficient windows and furnaces have been eliminated.
For a $20,000 geothermal system, a 30 percent tax credit would put it in the same cost range as a conventional heating and cooling system, Mccutchin said.
This stuff is not inexpensive," said Guy Fortin of Lake Michigan Wind & Sun in Sturgeon Bay. "Anything they can do to incentivize this helps."
If the cost of a solar electric system is $50,000, that could be cut in half when the 30 percent federal tax credits are combined with tax incentives from the state, Fortin explains.
The other attractiveness of renewable energy is its cleanliness when compared with fossil fuels, said Andy Williams, co-founder of Manitowoc-based GreenSky Energetics Inc., which installs solar thermal water heaters and solar forced air systems.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Six high schools will get solar systems from WPS
An article from the Oconto County Reporter posted on the site of the Green Bay Press Gazette:
Six Northeastern Wisconsin high schools, including Lena High School, have been selected to receive the SolarWise for Schools educational program from WPS Community Foundation Inc. Over the next two years, each of these schools will receive a solar-electric system on its rooftop and a three-week curriculum package to explore renewable energy resources and the use of solar power.
In 2009, systems will be installed in Chilton, Gibraltar and Elcho high schools. In 2010, Green Bay Preble, Lena and Goodman-Armstrong Creek high schools will receive the systems.
These six high schools join 41 others already participating in the SolarWise program.
Each of the schools will receive a 2-kilowatt solar-electric system to supplement the power they receive from Wisconsin Public Service. The solar equipment will provide enough electricity to light several classrooms, and students will be able to monitor performance daily via the Internet.
Along with the rooftop solar equipment, each school will receive a SolarWise for Schools curriculum package for classroom use. The package gives students hands-on learning experiences with solar energy and other renewable resources.
Six Northeastern Wisconsin high schools, including Lena High School, have been selected to receive the SolarWise for Schools educational program from WPS Community Foundation Inc. Over the next two years, each of these schools will receive a solar-electric system on its rooftop and a three-week curriculum package to explore renewable energy resources and the use of solar power.
In 2009, systems will be installed in Chilton, Gibraltar and Elcho high schools. In 2010, Green Bay Preble, Lena and Goodman-Armstrong Creek high schools will receive the systems.
These six high schools join 41 others already participating in the SolarWise program.
Each of the schools will receive a 2-kilowatt solar-electric system to supplement the power they receive from Wisconsin Public Service. The solar equipment will provide enough electricity to light several classrooms, and students will be able to monitor performance daily via the Internet.
Along with the rooftop solar equipment, each school will receive a SolarWise for Schools curriculum package for classroom use. The package gives students hands-on learning experiences with solar energy and other renewable resources.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
From an article by Sarah Millard in the Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter:
MANITOWOC — The attorney for Emerging Energies LLP filed a civil complaint against the Manitowoc County Board of Adjustments asking a court to overturn the county's Jan. 19 denial of a conditional use permit to construct wind turbines in Mishicot.
Edward Ritger alleges in the complaint filed Tuesday that denial is unlawful, unsupported by record and shows that the board used its will and not judgment.
The company wants to construct a seven-turbine wind farm in an agriculture-zoned district in Mishicot. Its application was rejected at the Jan. 19 meeting, according to the Board of Adjustment minutes. Board member Robert Rasmussen did not vote on the project. Board members Earl Glaeser, Charlie Nate, Laurel Vondrachek and Orville Bonde voted against the wind farm.
The complaint also alleges that by denying the permit, the Board of Adjustment "failed to adequately consider the beneficial effects of the proposed use on the community in general and the benefit to the individuals in the vicinity of the project."
The Hubertus-based company unsuccessfully sued the county in May 2007, claiming that the county's wind turbine ordinance violates state law and makes the company's proposed project "cost prohibitive."
Manitowoc County Circuit Judge Darryl Deets dismissed the case April 16, 2008. Ritger appealed the case April 29, 2008, and awaits a decision from the appellate court.
MANITOWOC — The attorney for Emerging Energies LLP filed a civil complaint against the Manitowoc County Board of Adjustments asking a court to overturn the county's Jan. 19 denial of a conditional use permit to construct wind turbines in Mishicot.
Edward Ritger alleges in the complaint filed Tuesday that denial is unlawful, unsupported by record and shows that the board used its will and not judgment.
The company wants to construct a seven-turbine wind farm in an agriculture-zoned district in Mishicot. Its application was rejected at the Jan. 19 meeting, according to the Board of Adjustment minutes. Board member Robert Rasmussen did not vote on the project. Board members Earl Glaeser, Charlie Nate, Laurel Vondrachek and Orville Bonde voted against the wind farm.
The complaint also alleges that by denying the permit, the Board of Adjustment "failed to adequately consider the beneficial effects of the proposed use on the community in general and the benefit to the individuals in the vicinity of the project."
The Hubertus-based company unsuccessfully sued the county in May 2007, claiming that the county's wind turbine ordinance violates state law and makes the company's proposed project "cost prohibitive."
Manitowoc County Circuit Judge Darryl Deets dismissed the case April 16, 2008. Ritger appealed the case April 29, 2008, and awaits a decision from the appellate court.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Officials disagree on potential Green Bay train service
From an article by Paul Srubas in the Green Bay Press Gazette:
Mayor Jim Schmitt hopes that Green Bay continues to be part of conversations about passenger rail service in Wisconsin.
Gov. Jim Doyle, in recent discussions about passenger rail service linking Madison and Milwaukee and possibly the Twin Cities, has hinted at the possibility of a rail spur someday connecting Green Bay to the network. Discussions of uses for federal economic stimulus money have fueled interest in mass transit and revitalized discussions of passenger rail service in Wisconsin.
"You'll see significant focus and improvements on passenger rail service throughout the U.S. in coming years," Schmitt predicted. "It's all something the federal and state governments are working on, and we just need to be part of the conversation.
"Linking Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison is important, but I don't want it to stop at Milwaukee. So much of it will come back to how much is being allocated, how much the state is going to get, and we need to keep the idea of Green Bay as a possible spur as a priority.
"It's not something we'll see in the next two or three years, but in the next five or 10? I think it's very doable."
But Paul Jadin, president of the Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and Schmitt's predecessor as mayor, thinks it could be even further away. The idea is attractive for Green Bay, but Jadin said there are a number of problems that need to be solved.
Jadin was a member of former Gov. Tommy Thompson's Blue Ribbon Task Force on Passenger Rail Service nearly 10 years ago.
"We initially explored the possibility of a train traveling 79 mph, with four stops" between Milwaukee and Green Bay, Jadin said. "It would take 4.5 hours. Who is going to get on a train for 4.5 hours when you can drive it in two?
"We did look at the possibility of speeds of 110 mph, with significant track improvement, would obviously increase the cost of such a project. We found that even if you had a train that could travel 110 mph, with multiple stops between Milwaukee and here, there would be little incentive to use it. It'd still take in excess of three hours."
Mayor Jim Schmitt hopes that Green Bay continues to be part of conversations about passenger rail service in Wisconsin.
Gov. Jim Doyle, in recent discussions about passenger rail service linking Madison and Milwaukee and possibly the Twin Cities, has hinted at the possibility of a rail spur someday connecting Green Bay to the network. Discussions of uses for federal economic stimulus money have fueled interest in mass transit and revitalized discussions of passenger rail service in Wisconsin.
"You'll see significant focus and improvements on passenger rail service throughout the U.S. in coming years," Schmitt predicted. "It's all something the federal and state governments are working on, and we just need to be part of the conversation.
"Linking Chicago, Milwaukee and Madison is important, but I don't want it to stop at Milwaukee. So much of it will come back to how much is being allocated, how much the state is going to get, and we need to keep the idea of Green Bay as a possible spur as a priority.
"It's not something we'll see in the next two or three years, but in the next five or 10? I think it's very doable."
But Paul Jadin, president of the Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and Schmitt's predecessor as mayor, thinks it could be even further away. The idea is attractive for Green Bay, but Jadin said there are a number of problems that need to be solved.
Jadin was a member of former Gov. Tommy Thompson's Blue Ribbon Task Force on Passenger Rail Service nearly 10 years ago.
"We initially explored the possibility of a train traveling 79 mph, with four stops" between Milwaukee and Green Bay, Jadin said. "It would take 4.5 hours. Who is going to get on a train for 4.5 hours when you can drive it in two?
"We did look at the possibility of speeds of 110 mph, with significant track improvement, would obviously increase the cost of such a project. We found that even if you had a train that could travel 110 mph, with multiple stops between Milwaukee and here, there would be little incentive to use it. It'd still take in excess of three hours."
Friday, February 20, 2009
See interview with Maple Grove turbine owner
The coverage by Nathan Phelps posted on the site of the the Green Bay Press Gazette includes a video interview of turbine owner Rick Adamaski:
MAPLE GROVE — It's easier these days to find Rick and Valerie Adamski's farm.
If you make a wrong turn in Hofa Park (you have a 50 percent chance of getting it right), take a look for the wind turbine jutting up from the rural landscape just west of the small Shawano County hamlet.
That's their farm.
The couple has adopted organic and sustainable practices on their dairy farm, and harnessing wind power is the latest example.
The 110-foot-tall, 35-kilowatt turbine is expected to begin generating power this week, supplying the electrical needs of the farm and providing extra energy that will be sold to Wisconsin Energy Corp.
The move is coupled with other efficiencies and conservation practices they have put in place on the farm.
"Ever since I returned to the farm, sustainability and energy use have been a focus," he said. "Renewable energy is very important, but first we've got to find efficiencies and do conservation. It would be like buying a high-efficiency furnace and leaving the windows open.
"We need to use whatever we're using wisely," Adamski said.
The Adamskis have sunk about $100,000 into the project and have been helped by about $68,000 in grants. They expect to have their investment paid off in about 10 years.
MAPLE GROVE — It's easier these days to find Rick and Valerie Adamski's farm.
If you make a wrong turn in Hofa Park (you have a 50 percent chance of getting it right), take a look for the wind turbine jutting up from the rural landscape just west of the small Shawano County hamlet.
That's their farm.
The couple has adopted organic and sustainable practices on their dairy farm, and harnessing wind power is the latest example.
The 110-foot-tall, 35-kilowatt turbine is expected to begin generating power this week, supplying the electrical needs of the farm and providing extra energy that will be sold to Wisconsin Energy Corp.
The move is coupled with other efficiencies and conservation practices they have put in place on the farm.
"Ever since I returned to the farm, sustainability and energy use have been a focus," he said. "Renewable energy is very important, but first we've got to find efficiencies and do conservation. It would be like buying a high-efficiency furnace and leaving the windows open.
"We need to use whatever we're using wisely," Adamski said.
The Adamskis have sunk about $100,000 into the project and have been helped by about $68,000 in grants. They expect to have their investment paid off in about 10 years.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
We Energies seeks proposals for R&D in renewable energy
From the solicitation announcement from We Energies:
We Energies offers grants under its Renewable Energy Research and Development (R&D) Grant Program to its business and not-for-profit electric customers as well as to organizations teamed with We Energies business and not-for-profit electric customers. This program offers financial assistance in the form of a grant to conduct research on renewable energy technologies, or to help demonstrate a renewable energy product or technology. Areas of research that will receive the highest funding priority include work in the following areas:
1. Improving existing renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, and biomass.
2. Expanding renewable distributed-generation technologies and related technologies, such as energy storage and smart grid technologies that directly benefit the integration and distribution of renewable energy onto the grid.
3. Developing renewable energy technologies, products and services that provide more affordable electricity and improved reliability.
4. Conducting longer-term research on advanced renewable technologies that will help meet tomorrow's electricity needs and contribute positively to the renewable energy industry.
A proposed research project must be located within We Energies electric service territory, or if not located within the service territory it must clearly provide local benefits to the electric service territory. Grants are not intended to offset the cost of purchasing small renewable systems such as a residential photovoltaic installations and/or a small wind turbine on a farm, but rather are intended for research and development endeavors that will clearly advance a technology or product, and will clearly contribute positively to the renewable energy industry. . . .
We Energies offers grant funds up to a maximum grant of $200,000 per project. Although matching funds are not required for this grant program, any additional funding that can be added to the proposal is considered a favorable element of the project and increases the chances for a successful grant. In addition, as noted above, We Energies grant funds may potentially be used as matching funds toward a larger state or federal grant program, provided project activities meet this program’s requirements and intent. Only one R&D grant will be awarded per applicant per program year. Exceptions will be made for Universities and similar type organizations where separate project applications may be received from different departments within the organization in one calendar year. In those cases, only one successful grant will be awarded to a specific department in a calendar year. . . .
How do I apply for a grant?
Complete and submit the application. The application requires a scope of work that describes the goals of your study, the tasks or deliverables that will be accomplished, a timeline and budget for each task/deliverable, and your qualifications (and those of your team, if applicable). If a consultant or outside entity will perform all or a portion of the work, a scope of work and associated materials must be received on their letterhead and signed by the person(s) committing to complete the study. If you’re an organization teaming with a We Energies electric customer, a letter of commitment from all parties, describing the relationship and roles of each party, also must be included in your application. . . .
More information:
Amy Flom
amy.flom@we-energies.com
262-893-6162
We Energies offers grants under its Renewable Energy Research and Development (R&D) Grant Program to its business and not-for-profit electric customers as well as to organizations teamed with We Energies business and not-for-profit electric customers. This program offers financial assistance in the form of a grant to conduct research on renewable energy technologies, or to help demonstrate a renewable energy product or technology. Areas of research that will receive the highest funding priority include work in the following areas:
1. Improving existing renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, and biomass.
2. Expanding renewable distributed-generation technologies and related technologies, such as energy storage and smart grid technologies that directly benefit the integration and distribution of renewable energy onto the grid.
3. Developing renewable energy technologies, products and services that provide more affordable electricity and improved reliability.
4. Conducting longer-term research on advanced renewable technologies that will help meet tomorrow's electricity needs and contribute positively to the renewable energy industry.
A proposed research project must be located within We Energies electric service territory, or if not located within the service territory it must clearly provide local benefits to the electric service territory. Grants are not intended to offset the cost of purchasing small renewable systems such as a residential photovoltaic installations and/or a small wind turbine on a farm, but rather are intended for research and development endeavors that will clearly advance a technology or product, and will clearly contribute positively to the renewable energy industry. . . .
We Energies offers grant funds up to a maximum grant of $200,000 per project. Although matching funds are not required for this grant program, any additional funding that can be added to the proposal is considered a favorable element of the project and increases the chances for a successful grant. In addition, as noted above, We Energies grant funds may potentially be used as matching funds toward a larger state or federal grant program, provided project activities meet this program’s requirements and intent. Only one R&D grant will be awarded per applicant per program year. Exceptions will be made for Universities and similar type organizations where separate project applications may be received from different departments within the organization in one calendar year. In those cases, only one successful grant will be awarded to a specific department in a calendar year. . . .
How do I apply for a grant?
Complete and submit the application. The application requires a scope of work that describes the goals of your study, the tasks or deliverables that will be accomplished, a timeline and budget for each task/deliverable, and your qualifications (and those of your team, if applicable). If a consultant or outside entity will perform all or a portion of the work, a scope of work and associated materials must be received on their letterhead and signed by the person(s) committing to complete the study. If you’re an organization teaming with a We Energies electric customer, a letter of commitment from all parties, describing the relationship and roles of each party, also must be included in your application. . . .
More information:
Amy Flom
amy.flom@we-energies.com
262-893-6162
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Timber Rattlers save money and energy with new sign
From a news release issued by Focus on Energy:
The Wisconsin Timber Rattlers had quite a year in 2008. Pitcher Phillippe Aumont played on the World Team for Major League Baseball's All-Star Futures Games, the Midwest League named the Timber Rattlers' grounds crew the best in the league and the team signed a four-year player development agreement with the Milwaukee Brewers. But one of the team's accomplishments even die-hard fans may not know is the Timber Rattlers became even greener.
Last year, Focus on Energy, Wisconsin's energy efficiency and renewable energy initiative, helped the franchise replace its outdoor incandescent message board with a state-of-the-art LED (light-emitting diode) alternative. The sign is located at Time Warner Cable Field at Fox Cities Stadium, on U.S. Highway 41 in Appleton, Wis.
Focus provided a $7,094 custom lighting grant to help fund the new LED message board, which uses only one-tenth the power of the old sign, saving 93,381 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually and $9,338 in energy savings on utility bills.
Focus on Energy helped the Timber Rattlers install an LED outdoor
sign at Time Warner Cable Field at Fox Cities Stadium in Appleton, Wis.
"We had a very positive experience working with Focus on Energy," said Rob Zerjav, president of the Timber Rattlers. "Focus walked us through the entire process - from showing our current energy usage to potential cost savings - even giving us suggestions on how to save energy in other areas of the ballpark."
LEDs produce light more efficiently than traditional incandescent lighting by using a microchip that emits light in a single direction. By more precisely directing the light, less energy is wasted. LEDs are compact in size and have the ability to dim and turn on and off instantly. Because LED lights do not have a filament, they last longer than incandescent lights. The lights also contain no mercury, allowing safe and easy disposal.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Be part of the Next Economic Revolution!
From the Web site of the Northeast Wisconsin Technical College:
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is eager to support and provide the education and training for the emerging Energy Revolution. Our nation and the global marketplace must find ways to reduce our carbon emissions and reduce the rising cost of fuel. Over the past year, NWTC has been working with agricultural and business leaders to identify training gaps and opportunities within the marketplace.
Five new Renewable/Sustainable Energy certificates have been created to support learners and reposition Northeast Wisconsin as a leader in Energy Independence.
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College is eager to support and provide the education and training for the emerging Energy Revolution. Our nation and the global marketplace must find ways to reduce our carbon emissions and reduce the rising cost of fuel. Over the past year, NWTC has been working with agricultural and business leaders to identify training gaps and opportunities within the marketplace.
Five new Renewable/Sustainable Energy certificates have been created to support learners and reposition Northeast Wisconsin as a leader in Energy Independence.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Algoma Utilities adds solar electric system
From an article printed in the Kewaunee County News and posted on WisInfo.com:
Electric customers are benefiting from a new educational demonstration application of solar power in the city. The community-owned utility recently installed an array of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels [pictured above] at the utility's office on Flora Avenue.
Algoma Utilities [a member utility of WPPI Energy] installed 14 awning-mounted panels, with an output of 2.7 kilowatts, providing approximately 3,200 kilowatt-hours of emissions-free electricity each year.
"It is our objective to be a model for the use of renewable energy," said Richard Riederer, general manager. "By supporting communitywide renewable projects, Algoma Utilities is illustrating the practical use of renewable energy and enticing customers to do the same."
A Solar PV system collects energy from sunlight and converts it into electricity, providing renewable, emissions-free energy. These projects demonstrate the technology, while educating the community on their benefits, operation and performance.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
WPS asks to give customers $5 million refund
An article in the Appleton Post-Crescent:
Green Bay-based Wisconsin Public Service Corp. is seeking regulatory permission to refund $5 million to its electric customers.
The utility said today it filed the request with the state Public Service Commission.
The utility says the refund is necessary because of lower fuel costs during the last half of 2008 and lower expenses to purchase power.
WPS says the refund for the typical residential customer will be about $3.36.
If approved by the PSC, the utility says the refunds will be made in the March and April bills.
The company serves almost 430,000 electric customers in northeastern and central Wisconsin and part of Upper Michigan.
Green Bay-based Wisconsin Public Service Corp. is seeking regulatory permission to refund $5 million to its electric customers.
The utility said today it filed the request with the state Public Service Commission.
The utility says the refund is necessary because of lower fuel costs during the last half of 2008 and lower expenses to purchase power.
WPS says the refund for the typical residential customer will be about $3.36.
If approved by the PSC, the utility says the refunds will be made in the March and April bills.
The company serves almost 430,000 electric customers in northeastern and central Wisconsin and part of Upper Michigan.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
John Ikerd to speak at UW Fox Valley in April
Reconnecting with the Earth: Healthy Farms, Healthy Foods, and Healthy Communities
April 20–1:00 p.m., Room 1229
Free and open to the public with unreserved seating
Presenter Dr. John Ikerd will be speaking about developing the conceptual foundation for an economically viable, ecologically sound, and socially responsible society.
For more information please contact Jeff Kuepper at jeff.kuepper@uwc.edu
April 20–1:00 p.m., Room 1229
Free and open to the public with unreserved seating
Presenter Dr. John Ikerd will be speaking about developing the conceptual foundation for an economically viable, ecologically sound, and socially responsible society.
For more information please contact Jeff Kuepper at jeff.kuepper@uwc.edu
Monday, February 9, 2009
Shawano County farmer installs wind turbine
Rick Adamski (left) began researching wind turbine options even before the Midwest Renewable Energy Fair in 2005, where he talked with turbine installer Dave Blecker of Seventh Generation, the company that installed Adamski's turbine.From a story by Monica Landeros on WLUK-TV:
There is a farmer in Northeast Wisconsin who soon won't have electricity bills, in fact the electric company may eventually be paying him. That's because the Maple Grove farmer near Seymour in Shawano County has installed one of the first wind turbines in his area on his own property, with the help of federal and state grants.
Look across the snow cover fields of Full Circle Farms in Maple Grove and you'll a 110-foot tall wind turbine with three massive blades.
"The wind turbine should last 20 to 30 years," said Full Circle Farmer Owner Rick Adamski.
It took hours to install in early February. Adamski watched every step of the process from a safe distance with some neighbors.
"We're trying to reduce our impact on the environment," said Adamski. . . .
Adamski's wind turbine still needs some finishing touches and is expected to be turned on the week of February 9th.
Soon after that, Adamski won't pay for electricity anymore. It will save him about $7,000 a year. In fact, the turbine will produce more energy than is needed. So, the extra energy will be sold back to WE Energies.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Pro-wind mayor, anti-wind newspaper join Manitowoc fray
From a weekly commentary by Manitowoc Mayor Kevin Crawford:
What is baffling then is that with great “green job” employers like Manitowoc Cranes and Tower Tech located right here in the County Seat, why does the County Board have an ordinance that may as well state, “no wind turbines allowed”.
Tower Tech manufactures the towers on which wind turbines are mounted. The wind turbine generates electricity using the free and renewable resource: wind. Alternative and renewable energies are needed if we are going to rid ourselves of our dependence on foreign oil.
Manitowoc Cranes manufactures the lifting devices needed to erect wind towers.
Can you see the nexus then between not being able to erect a wind generator in Manitowoc County and jobs . . . .
Manitowoc is not the only place where wind towers can be manufactured. And by the way, they’re worth 2 million dollars each … that’s a lot of jobs.
Maybe its time for the County Board to rethink its “no wind turbine” stance.
Keeping people employed and families stable is everybody’s business.
From an editorial in the Herald Times Reporter:
We believe local governments are quite capable of deciding what is best for the people that live within them. If the state wants to have a role in local wind farm decisions, we feel it should be advisory only.
The state thus can maintain some degree of oversight, but the ultimate decision would be made by the people most directly affected — at the local level.
The state can do quite well in helping regulate large wind farm projects, like those in Fond du Lac and Columbia counties. It does not need to extend its long arm to smaller, community-based projects, unless local agencies ask for their advice and input.
More verbal exchanges.
What is baffling then is that with great “green job” employers like Manitowoc Cranes and Tower Tech located right here in the County Seat, why does the County Board have an ordinance that may as well state, “no wind turbines allowed”.
Tower Tech manufactures the towers on which wind turbines are mounted. The wind turbine generates electricity using the free and renewable resource: wind. Alternative and renewable energies are needed if we are going to rid ourselves of our dependence on foreign oil.
Manitowoc Cranes manufactures the lifting devices needed to erect wind towers.
Can you see the nexus then between not being able to erect a wind generator in Manitowoc County and jobs . . . .
Manitowoc is not the only place where wind towers can be manufactured. And by the way, they’re worth 2 million dollars each … that’s a lot of jobs.
Maybe its time for the County Board to rethink its “no wind turbine” stance.
Keeping people employed and families stable is everybody’s business.
From an editorial in the Herald Times Reporter:
We believe local governments are quite capable of deciding what is best for the people that live within them. If the state wants to have a role in local wind farm decisions, we feel it should be advisory only.
The state thus can maintain some degree of oversight, but the ultimate decision would be made by the people most directly affected — at the local level.
The state can do quite well in helping regulate large wind farm projects, like those in Fond du Lac and Columbia counties. It does not need to extend its long arm to smaller, community-based projects, unless local agencies ask for their advice and input.
More verbal exchanges.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
We have the right to breathe clean air
From a letter to the editor by Amanda Cristal Garcia to the Green Bay Press Gazette:
Recently the Press-Gazette has published numerous articles on air pollution in Green Bay in which air specialists state "it's no surprise" that the amount of particle pollution does not meet EPA standards.
The source of the problem is coal combustion and auto emissions, which release large amounts of chemicals into the air. The question is why have levels increased over the years? At the stem of the conflict, we have companies that may not be following the laws put into place to reduce the amount of nitrogen dioxide and sulfur.
Apparently these restrictions do not suffice because pollution is getting worse.
Stricter laws must be implemented in order to prevent more pollution coming from our community's factories. Weak, ineffective laws will not solve the problem. Our community must push for new laws because it affects us directly. Citizens can improve air quality by taking the initiative to make walking and biking a part of their lifestyle, leaving the car behind.
Fuel-efficient cars will become readily available and affordable for citizens. Cleaner air is possible.
Recently the Press-Gazette has published numerous articles on air pollution in Green Bay in which air specialists state "it's no surprise" that the amount of particle pollution does not meet EPA standards.
The source of the problem is coal combustion and auto emissions, which release large amounts of chemicals into the air. The question is why have levels increased over the years? At the stem of the conflict, we have companies that may not be following the laws put into place to reduce the amount of nitrogen dioxide and sulfur.
Apparently these restrictions do not suffice because pollution is getting worse.
Stricter laws must be implemented in order to prevent more pollution coming from our community's factories. Weak, ineffective laws will not solve the problem. Our community must push for new laws because it affects us directly. Citizens can improve air quality by taking the initiative to make walking and biking a part of their lifestyle, leaving the car behind.
Fuel-efficient cars will become readily available and affordable for citizens. Cleaner air is possible.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
The Renewable Energy Summit opened online registration for the event at the Midwest Airline Center, Milwaukee, March 25 - 28, 2009.Fifteen program themes highlight bio industry energy; business technologies and practices; curriculum programs and course design; energy efficiency, energy management and renewable, sustainable and green practices; energy policy, legal issues, drivers of the energy revolution, and opportunities for funding; green career pathways; green manufacturing; greening practices for colleges; green transportation; solar electric energy; solar thermal and geothermal energy; utility issues; water technologies; and wind energy.
March 25 and 26 focus on the renewable energy industry with presentations on all sectors of the industry. March 27 features Green Career Day with the focus on educational and job opportunities. March 28 offers workshops and short courses at the MATC Oak Creek Campus. For details see www.renewableenergysummit.org.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Utility seeks proposals for building net zero energy homes
From an announcement from Wisconsin Public Power Inc. (WPPI):
Grants are now available for both new construction and remodeling of existing homes that are targeting net zero energy use when completed.
Complete details can be found at www.GreenMaxHome.com. Click here to view the GreenMax Home RFP.
WPPI's Web site explains the concept of a net zero energy home:
A net zero energy home is connected to the energy grid that supplies your local utility with power, but it is designed and constructed to produce at least as much energy as it consumes. The house supplies energy back to the grid in — at a minimum —an amount equal to the amount of power the homeowner purchases from the grid, resulting in a “net zero” impact on the nation’s energy supply. Any excess energy generated by the house is fed back into the grid.
This new concept combines state-of-the-art, energy-efficient construction and appliances with commercially available renewable energy systems such as solar water heating and solar electricity. In many cases, the entire energy consumption — heating, cooling and appliances — of a net zero energy home can be provided by renewable energy sources.
Proposed homes must be built in a WPPI Energy member utility service area. WPPI's member utilities are:
Alger Delta, MI
Algoma
Baraga, MI
Black River Falls
Boscobel
Brodhead
Cedarburg
Columbus
Cuba City
Eagle River
Evansville
Florence
Gladstone, MI
Hartford
Hustisford
Independence, IA
Jefferson
Juneau
Kaukauna
L'Anse, MI
Lake Mills
Lodi
Maquoketa, IA
Menasha
Mount Horeb
Muscoda
Negaunee, MI
New Glarus
New Holstein
New London
New Richmond
Norway, MI
Oconomowoc
Oconto Falls
Plymouth
Prairie du Sac
Reedsburg
Richland Center
River Falls
Slinger
Stoughton
Sturgeon Bay
Sun Prairie
Two Rivers
Waterloo
Waunakee
Waupun
Westby
Whitehall
Grants are now available for both new construction and remodeling of existing homes that are targeting net zero energy use when completed.
Complete details can be found at www.GreenMaxHome.com. Click here to view the GreenMax Home RFP.
WPPI's Web site explains the concept of a net zero energy home:
A net zero energy home is connected to the energy grid that supplies your local utility with power, but it is designed and constructed to produce at least as much energy as it consumes. The house supplies energy back to the grid in — at a minimum —an amount equal to the amount of power the homeowner purchases from the grid, resulting in a “net zero” impact on the nation’s energy supply. Any excess energy generated by the house is fed back into the grid.
This new concept combines state-of-the-art, energy-efficient construction and appliances with commercially available renewable energy systems such as solar water heating and solar electricity. In many cases, the entire energy consumption — heating, cooling and appliances — of a net zero energy home can be provided by renewable energy sources.
Proposed homes must be built in a WPPI Energy member utility service area. WPPI's member utilities are:
Alger Delta, MI
Algoma
Baraga, MI
Black River Falls
Boscobel
Brodhead
Cedarburg
Columbus
Cuba City
Eagle River
Evansville
Florence
Gladstone, MI
Hartford
Hustisford
Independence, IA
Jefferson
Juneau
Kaukauna
L'Anse, MI
Lake Mills
Lodi
Maquoketa, IA
Menasha
Mount Horeb
Muscoda
Negaunee, MI
New Glarus
New Holstein
New London
New Richmond
Norway, MI
Oconomowoc
Oconto Falls
Plymouth
Prairie du Sac
Reedsburg
Richland Center
River Falls
Slinger
Stoughton
Sturgeon Bay
Sun Prairie
Two Rivers
Waterloo
Waunakee
Waupun
Westby
Whitehall
Monday, February 2, 2009
Not-in-my-backyard attitude a continuing problem
From an editorial in The Country Today:
We hear it all the time in rural Wisconsin communities: "We don't want that wind farm, large dairy operation or anaerobic digester in our neighborhood."
The not-in-my-backyard mentality hasn't gone away and it isn't likely to anytime soon.
The NIMBY attitude really isn't so hard to understand. If someone lived in a peaceful rural neighborhood and that person had a choice, he or she probably would opt not to have that tranquility disrupted by a large business being built next door, whether it be an ethanol plant, a hog confinement operation or a widget factory.
It would be quite unusual to hear, "Please don't build that in my backyard, build it in my front yard!"
Within the past week, stories have crossed our desks about a large dairy project near Rosendale, a Manitowoc County wind farm and a community animal-manure digester project in Dane County.
We hear it all the time in rural Wisconsin communities: "We don't want that wind farm, large dairy operation or anaerobic digester in our neighborhood."
The not-in-my-backyard mentality hasn't gone away and it isn't likely to anytime soon.
The NIMBY attitude really isn't so hard to understand. If someone lived in a peaceful rural neighborhood and that person had a choice, he or she probably would opt not to have that tranquility disrupted by a large business being built next door, whether it be an ethanol plant, a hog confinement operation or a widget factory.
It would be quite unusual to hear, "Please don't build that in my backyard, build it in my front yard!"
Within the past week, stories have crossed our desks about a large dairy project near Rosendale, a Manitowoc County wind farm and a community animal-manure digester project in Dane County.
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