University of Wisconsin - Extension

Contact Andrew Dane, 715-726-7950, andrew.dane@ces.uwex.edu

Eau Claire, Wis.--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.

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.

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.

Pete Kling, St. Croix County UW-Extension community development educator will guide participants through the regulatory framework for renewable energy development by explaining who regulates what and identifying the traits that renewable energy site selectors are looking for.

The cost of the conference is $20 until May 7. After that date, the cost is $25 per person. To register, e-mail btrine@co.chippewa.wi.us or call 715-726-7950.

For more information about the May 12 conference and Wisconsin’s renewable energy programs, visit http://www.bioenergyforum.com/