by jboullion | Jun 9, 2009 | Uncategorized
An Associated Press story on WSAW.com:
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Jim Doyle and lawmakers plan to eliminate funding for a grant program that helps Wisconsin companies discover new sources of energy.
The Legislature’s budget committee last week cut all $30 million the governor had proposed for the Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund that gives grants and loans to businesses researching and developing clean energy.
Environmental groups and companies who received the first batch of funding from the program last year say they are upset with the move.
Doyle spokeswoman Carla Vigue says the governor and lawmakers had to cut the funding to balance the budget. She says some of the federal stimulus money coming to Wisconsin will also help promote renewable energy businesses.
by jboullion | Jun 8, 2009 | Uncategorized
From Mid-State Technical College:
There is still room for a few more high school students who want to be in on a FREE three-day renewable energy academy at Mid-State Tech in Wisconsin Rapids June 17-19.
Not only is this free, students who attend earn 1 college credit.
Mid-State Technical College in Wisconsin Rapids is committed to renewable energy and efficiency education, with a variety of renewable energy programs:
Biorefinery Technology
Renewable Electricity Technician
Renewable Thermal Technician
Renewable Energy Specialist
Energy Efficiency Technician
Registration deadline is Friday, June 12.
For more information or to register contact:
Kris Buss, Administrative Assistant
Phone: 715.422.5375
Email: kris.buss@mstc.edu
by jboullion | Jun 5, 2009 | Uncategorized
A story from WEAU News:
A western Wisconsin hospital wants to harness some of the mighty Mississippi’s power for its own energy needs.
Gundersen Lutheran Hospital is hoping to get approved to build seven hydrokinetic turbines at a Mississippi River dam, which the hospital says would provide about 90% of its energy needs. The hospital says it would take millions of dollars to create, and would use a local power company to convert the power. It’s in the permit stages now, which the hospital says could take three years.
“Versus wind which you never know whether the wind is going to be blowing or the sun is going to be shining so we think that this is a really good alternative as a renewable energy source,” says Jeff Rich with Gundersen Lutheran.
Rich says the hospital could recoup the cost of the project in about ten years.
by jboullion | Jun 4, 2009 | Uncategorized
From a news release issued by Wisconsin Environment:
Green Bay, WI –Reducing dependence on fossil fuels, creating new jobs and protecting the environment for future generations are all benefits resulting from the clean energy policies adopted in Wisconsin in recent years, according to a new report released today at events in Madison, Milwaukee and Green Bay by Wisconsin Environment. The group cited the report’s findings as clear evidence the state legislature should take the next steps toward a clean energy economy.
“This report shows that we can repower Wisconsin and revitalize our economy with homegrown clean energy solutions,” said Wisconsin Environment Director Dan Kohler. “With our abundant natural resources and strong manufacturing and agricultural base, we have the perfect combination of assets to be a national leader.”
Wisconsin Environment’s new report comes as state lawmakers are gearing up to consider new commitments to renewable energy and efficiency programs. Last August, Governor Doyle’s Global Warming Task Force recommended increasing the state’s renewable energy commitment from 10% by 2015 up to 25% by 2025, as well as using energy more wisely. Legislation stemming from the task force is expected to be announced later this summer.
by jboullion | Jun 3, 2009 | Uncategorized
From an announcement issued by the USDA:
On May 26, 2009, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it is accepting applications for Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants and loan guarantees. REAP (Section 9007 of the 2008 Farm Bill) is the former Section 9006 under the 2002 Farm Bill and provides incentives for the development/construction of renewable energy projects, such as anaerobic digester projects.
REAP renewable energy grants can provide up to 25 percent of eligible project costs, up to $500,000. Loan guarantees or grant and loan guarantee combinations are capped at 75 percent of eligible project costs. More details are available in the Federal Register at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-12178.pdf or on the USDA Web site http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/busp/9006grant.htm.
Application materials may be obtained by contacting one of USDA Rural Development State Offices, which are listed at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/recd_map.html or by downloading at http://www.grants.gov. Applications are due on July 31, 2009.
