A news release issued by Wisconsin Farmers Union:
Chippewa Falls, Wis. (October 30, 2009) - The Wisconsin Farmers Union and other Homegrown Renewable Energy Campaign partners will host a bus tour on Nov. 13 to highlight the benefits of four homegrown renewable energy policies promoted by the campaign and the opportunities for clean energy jobs in Wisconsin.
The four signature partners of the activities are Wisconsin Farmers Union, the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute, Clean Wisconsin and RENEW Wisconsin. The Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection and the Office of Energy Independence are co-sponsors of the event.
The bus tour will begin at 9 a.m. at the Montfort Wind Farm, 254 Highway 18, Montfort, Wis. The wind farm is an example of one way to reduce carbon emissions and emphasizes the campaign's advocacy for a Low-Carbon Fuel Standard. A LCFS calls for a reduction in carbon emissions from transportation fuels, based on the carbon content of all fuels, and the transformation of the market.
The Fuels for Schools and Communities Program and the Biomass Crop Reserve Program will be addressed at the second stop on the tour - at the Meister Cheese Plant, 1160 Industrial Drive, Muscoda, Wis. The cheese plant uses a wood-chip heating system. Research at the University of Wisconsin will also be highlighted demonstrate the prospects for Wisconsin farmers to grow biomass crops.
Providing funding for schools and communities to install renewable energy projects that use biomass crops will create demand for renewable energy. The Biomass Crop Reserve Program provides incentives for farmers to meet that demand by growing biomass crops.
The third stop will be at the Cardinal Glass factory in Mazomanie, Wis. Cardinal Glass is one of the leading suppliers of glass for solar panels. The stop is an example of how homegrown renewable energy can provide jobs for Wisconsin.
Renewable energy buyback rates, the fourth component of the Homegrown Renewable Energy Campaign, will set utility payments for small renewable energy producers who want to feed energy into the electric grid. The tour will stop at a residential home in Ridgeway, Wis. using solar panels to feed electricity into the grid.
The bus will return to the Montfort Wind Farm at 5 p.m.
To register for the Homegrown Renewable Energy Campaign Bus Tour, contact Mike Stranz, WFU Government Relations Specialist, by Nov. 9 at 608-256-6661 or email mstranz@wisconsinfarmersunion.com. A $10 registration fee, payable by cash or check the day of the event, covers the cost of the tour, lunch and snacks.
CLICK HERE for more information on the Homegrown Renewable Energy Bus Tour.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wisconsin gets $97 million for heating assistance
From a news release issued by Governor Jim Doyle:
MADISON—Governor Jim Doyle [on Tuesday] announced the release to Wisconsin of over $97 million in federal funds for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The funding released today is three quarters of the estimated $130 million in LIHEAP funding Wisconsin is expected to receive this year. . .
The funds released today will be used for the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP), which provides financial assistance to low-income residents who may struggle to pay utility bills this winter. WHEAP is part of the state’s comprehensive Home Energy Plus program which provides assistance with emergency energy needs, emergency furnace repairs, conservation service and assistance weatherizing low-income households.
Due to recent changes in program eligibility, many more households across the state may be eligible for heating assistance this winter. Effective with the beginning of the 2009-2010 heating season, the income eligibility limit for WHEAP and Weatherization has increased from 150% of the federal poverty level to 60% of the State’s Median Income. . . .
Payments under these programs depend upon household size, income level, and home energy costs. A family of four, with an annual income of $45,067 or less may be eligible for energy assistance.
To receive more information about how to apply for the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program, call the Home Energy Plus hotline at 866-432-8947, or visit www.homeenergyplus.wi.gov.
MADISON—Governor Jim Doyle [on Tuesday] announced the release to Wisconsin of over $97 million in federal funds for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The funding released today is three quarters of the estimated $130 million in LIHEAP funding Wisconsin is expected to receive this year. . .
The funds released today will be used for the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP), which provides financial assistance to low-income residents who may struggle to pay utility bills this winter. WHEAP is part of the state’s comprehensive Home Energy Plus program which provides assistance with emergency energy needs, emergency furnace repairs, conservation service and assistance weatherizing low-income households.
Due to recent changes in program eligibility, many more households across the state may be eligible for heating assistance this winter. Effective with the beginning of the 2009-2010 heating season, the income eligibility limit for WHEAP and Weatherization has increased from 150% of the federal poverty level to 60% of the State’s Median Income. . . .
Payments under these programs depend upon household size, income level, and home energy costs. A family of four, with an annual income of $45,067 or less may be eligible for energy assistance.
To receive more information about how to apply for the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program, call the Home Energy Plus hotline at 866-432-8947, or visit www.homeenergyplus.wi.gov.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Doyle announces $500,000 for communities to plan for clean energy future
From a news release issued by Governor Jim Doyle:
MADISON – Governor Doyle announced today that $500,000 in funds from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program are available to communities working toward energy independence. The grants are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and will help communities create a plan to reach the Governor’s “25x25” goal of generating 25 percent of the state’s electricity and transportation fuels from renewable resources by the year 2025.
“Local communities are critical leaders in the state’s efforts to work toward energy independence,” Governor Doyle said. “The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grants will build on local leadership and invest in a clean energy future that will clean our air and water, create jobs, and save money for our citizens.”
The “25x25” Plan will help Energy Independent Communities understand their community’s overall energy consumption and create a plan to address opportunities in energy conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.
The Wisconsin Energy Independent (EI) Community Partnership is the first of its kind in the nation and is an integral part of Clean Energy Wisconsin, Governor Doyle’s plan to move Wisconsin toward energy independence. The partnership includes counties, cities, villages, towns, tribes, and schools in the state that have committed to Governor Doyle’s “25x25” challenge. Currently, there are over 100 EI Communities, with 10 EI Pilots working on the inaugural “25x25” Plan.
Governor Doyle and the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence encourage communities to apply for the “25x25” Plan Grant. Communities that join the EI Community Partnership before the December 15, 2009 deadline are eligible to apply. To access the application go to: http://energyindependence.wi.gov/docview.asp?docid=18164&locid=160
MADISON – Governor Doyle announced today that $500,000 in funds from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program are available to communities working toward energy independence. The grants are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and will help communities create a plan to reach the Governor’s “25x25” goal of generating 25 percent of the state’s electricity and transportation fuels from renewable resources by the year 2025.
“Local communities are critical leaders in the state’s efforts to work toward energy independence,” Governor Doyle said. “The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grants will build on local leadership and invest in a clean energy future that will clean our air and water, create jobs, and save money for our citizens.”
The “25x25” Plan will help Energy Independent Communities understand their community’s overall energy consumption and create a plan to address opportunities in energy conservation, energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.
The Wisconsin Energy Independent (EI) Community Partnership is the first of its kind in the nation and is an integral part of Clean Energy Wisconsin, Governor Doyle’s plan to move Wisconsin toward energy independence. The partnership includes counties, cities, villages, towns, tribes, and schools in the state that have committed to Governor Doyle’s “25x25” challenge. Currently, there are over 100 EI Communities, with 10 EI Pilots working on the inaugural “25x25” Plan.
Governor Doyle and the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence encourage communities to apply for the “25x25” Plan Grant. Communities that join the EI Community Partnership before the December 15, 2009 deadline are eligible to apply. To access the application go to: http://energyindependence.wi.gov/docview.asp?docid=18164&locid=160
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Renewable energy policies would benefit farmers
From a column by Margaret Krome in The Capital Times:
President Obama toured renewable energy research facilities recently at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He wanted to drive home the point that homegrown, low-carbon energy sources and energy conservation strategies are crucial to steer the planet toward a safer climate and the nation toward greater energy security. In addition, policy based on renewable energy and conservation creates jobs.
The president could just as well have toured Wisconsin to make his point. Wisconsin's researchers are forging ahead on many fronts, such as ways to grow biomass crops in a sustainable manner; economically viable processes to convert biomass into transportation fuels; and the siting, processing, and transportation protocols associated with using biomass for heat and power. Given the state's large biomass capacity in forests and crops like switchgrass, researchers are making an investment in the state's future.
But more is happening. The Legislature will soon consider recommendations from the Governor's Global Warming Task Force, some of which offer opportunities for new jobs across the state, in small towns as well as cities. Inevitably, vested interests always fight even obviously necessary change. So it should surprise nobody when coal companies and others who depend on fossil fuels mount campaigns to oppose renewable energy policies. But many objections are borne of fear and misinformation.
For example, some farm groups express concerns about the low carbon fuel standard, a policy that is actually likely to benefit Wisconsin's farmers. This policy uses a market mechanism to require fuel providers to reduce the total carbon content of fuels sold in the state. Rather than deprive farmers of fuels currently available, it would diversify farmers' fuel options and reduce volatility. And because the state does not produce fossil fuels but does produce biomass-based energy, this policy plays to the state's agricultural strengths.
Another policy being considered that supports farmers and rural communities as well as municipalities is the renewable energy buyback program. To meet demand for renewable energy, Wisconsin needs many people to become small-scale renewable energy producers. Some have already done so by installing wind turbines, methane digesters, or solar panels and selling the extra energy back into the grid. But the amount these small-scale producers get paid varies greatly, often making that energy unprofitable to produce.
President Obama toured renewable energy research facilities recently at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He wanted to drive home the point that homegrown, low-carbon energy sources and energy conservation strategies are crucial to steer the planet toward a safer climate and the nation toward greater energy security. In addition, policy based on renewable energy and conservation creates jobs.
The president could just as well have toured Wisconsin to make his point. Wisconsin's researchers are forging ahead on many fronts, such as ways to grow biomass crops in a sustainable manner; economically viable processes to convert biomass into transportation fuels; and the siting, processing, and transportation protocols associated with using biomass for heat and power. Given the state's large biomass capacity in forests and crops like switchgrass, researchers are making an investment in the state's future.
But more is happening. The Legislature will soon consider recommendations from the Governor's Global Warming Task Force, some of which offer opportunities for new jobs across the state, in small towns as well as cities. Inevitably, vested interests always fight even obviously necessary change. So it should surprise nobody when coal companies and others who depend on fossil fuels mount campaigns to oppose renewable energy policies. But many objections are borne of fear and misinformation.
For example, some farm groups express concerns about the low carbon fuel standard, a policy that is actually likely to benefit Wisconsin's farmers. This policy uses a market mechanism to require fuel providers to reduce the total carbon content of fuels sold in the state. Rather than deprive farmers of fuels currently available, it would diversify farmers' fuel options and reduce volatility. And because the state does not produce fossil fuels but does produce biomass-based energy, this policy plays to the state's agricultural strengths.
Another policy being considered that supports farmers and rural communities as well as municipalities is the renewable energy buyback program. To meet demand for renewable energy, Wisconsin needs many people to become small-scale renewable energy producers. Some have already done so by installing wind turbines, methane digesters, or solar panels and selling the extra energy back into the grid. But the amount these small-scale producers get paid varies greatly, often making that energy unprofitable to produce.
Monday, October 26, 2009
The dirty fight over cleaner power
From an article by Dee J. Hall in the La Crosse Tribune:
When state Department of Natural Resources Secretary Scott Hassett resigned suddenly in the summer of 2007, Gov. Jim Doyle's office announced that Hassett was leaving to "write, travel and consult on environmental and regulatory issues."
Privately, however, Hassett told a different story: That Doyle, a fellow Democrat, had forced him out of the top spot at the DNR because of the agency's insistence that the state clean up UW-Madison's coal-burning Charter Street heating plant - a move now expected to cost Wisconsin more than $200 million.
Hassett has told at least two former top DNR officials that he was forced to resign and one
of the reasons was the Charter Street enforcement action, which pitted two state agencies against one another in a conflict that hit close to the governor's office.
"There was no doubt in my mind that he (Hassett) was forced out," said George Meyer, DNR secretary from 1993 to 2001, recounting a conversation he had with Hassett at Hassett's Lake Mills-area home in March. Meyer said Hassett told him he believed the enforcement action against the plant was a key reason for his ouster.
Tom Thoresen, retired deputy chief conservation warden for the DNR, said Hassett told him a similar story in a phone conversation earlier this month.
Thoresen said he called Hassett to thank him for helping push for a bill that would take away the power of the governor to appoint the DNR secretary and return that authority to the Natural Resources Board. Four former DNR secretaries, including Hassett and Meyer, signed a letter last month backing Assembly Bill 138.
"I did talk to Scott Hassett ... thanking him for his signing on to the DNR letter to legislators," Thoresen said. "Scott told me that yes, Charter Street was part of the reason for his being let go."
Doyle spokesman Lee Sensenbrenner declined to answer directly whether Hassett, and his deputy, Mary Schlaefer, were forced out. He pointed to a July 20, 2007, news release that implied Hassett was resigning because of overwork after four and a half years on the job.
"Anyone who claims that Charter Street is the reason for Scott Hassett's departure is a liar," Sensenbrenner said in a statement.
When state Department of Natural Resources Secretary Scott Hassett resigned suddenly in the summer of 2007, Gov. Jim Doyle's office announced that Hassett was leaving to "write, travel and consult on environmental and regulatory issues."
Privately, however, Hassett told a different story: That Doyle, a fellow Democrat, had forced him out of the top spot at the DNR because of the agency's insistence that the state clean up UW-Madison's coal-burning Charter Street heating plant - a move now expected to cost Wisconsin more than $200 million.
Hassett has told at least two former top DNR officials that he was forced to resign and one
of the reasons was the Charter Street enforcement action, which pitted two state agencies against one another in a conflict that hit close to the governor's office.
"There was no doubt in my mind that he (Hassett) was forced out," said George Meyer, DNR secretary from 1993 to 2001, recounting a conversation he had with Hassett at Hassett's Lake Mills-area home in March. Meyer said Hassett told him he believed the enforcement action against the plant was a key reason for his ouster.
Tom Thoresen, retired deputy chief conservation warden for the DNR, said Hassett told him a similar story in a phone conversation earlier this month.
Thoresen said he called Hassett to thank him for helping push for a bill that would take away the power of the governor to appoint the DNR secretary and return that authority to the Natural Resources Board. Four former DNR secretaries, including Hassett and Meyer, signed a letter last month backing Assembly Bill 138.
"I did talk to Scott Hassett ... thanking him for his signing on to the DNR letter to legislators," Thoresen said. "Scott told me that yes, Charter Street was part of the reason for his being let go."
Doyle spokesman Lee Sensenbrenner declined to answer directly whether Hassett, and his deputy, Mary Schlaefer, were forced out. He pointed to a July 20, 2007, news release that implied Hassett was resigning because of overwork after four and a half years on the job.
"Anyone who claims that Charter Street is the reason for Scott Hassett's departure is a liar," Sensenbrenner said in a statement.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Experts rip anti-wind arguments
Even though the quotes below from pre-filed statements take the form of rebuttal testimony in the PSC proceedings on We Energies Glacier Hills Wind Park, they can stand on their own. You need not read the filings they rebut in order to make sense out of what they're saying.
The pre-filed testimony stands among the strongest redupiation of anti-wind arguments.
These filings will be formally entered into the record when the technical hearings begin on November 2nd, but they (and all other filings) are available online at the Web site of the Public Service Commission and link directlyi to case 6630-CE-302.
Richard Larkin, a state certified real estate appraiser, rebuts a “study” of property values paid for by the Coaliton for Wisconsin Environmental Stewardship (CWESt), a group opposing the Glacier Hills project:
William Roberts, PhD in Epidemiology, former faculty member with the Medical College of Wisconsin (Dept. of Preventative Medicine), former Oklahoma State Epidemiologist dissects Dr. Nina Pierpont's "research" and rebuts CWESt's acoustical consultant. He summarized his testimony as follows:
Geoff Leventhall, acoustical consultant, PhD in acoustics, presented testimony to rebut CWESt's acoustical consultant.
The pre-filed testimony stands among the strongest redupiation of anti-wind arguments.
These filings will be formally entered into the record when the technical hearings begin on November 2nd, but they (and all other filings) are available online at the Web site of the Public Service Commission and link directlyi to case 6630-CE-302.
Richard Larkin, a state certified real estate appraiser, rebuts a “study” of property values paid for by the Coaliton for Wisconsin Environmental Stewardship (CWESt), a group opposing the Glacier Hills project:
I am responding to testimony submitted by Kurt Kielisch on behalf of CWESt, in 1 which he claims that paired sales analyses at the Blue Sky Green Field and Forward wind projects shows that proximity to wind turbines results in a significant negative impact on residential real estate values. There are significant (and probably fatal) problems with his analysis, which I will explain in my testimony. . . .Read all of Larkin’s testimony here.
. . .it is my opinion that Appraisal One’s Wind Turbine Impact Study is significantly flawed, and in my opinion, likely meaningless.
William Roberts, PhD in Epidemiology, former faculty member with the Medical College of Wisconsin (Dept. of Preventative Medicine), former Oklahoma State Epidemiologist dissects Dr. Nina Pierpont's "research" and rebuts CWESt's acoustical consultant. He summarized his testimony as follows:
+ “Wind Turbine Syndrome” is not a medical diagnosis supported by peer reviewed, published, scientific literature;Read all of Roberts’ testimony here.
+ The materials presented to support “Wind Turbine Syndrome” are not of sufficient scientific quality nor have they received the rigorous scientific review and vetting that is customarily part of the peer review and publishing process;
+ The tried and true scientific method of developing a hypothesis, testing that hypothesis, publishing the results and having others attempt to repeat the research has not been done to test the existence of a health condition called “Wind Turbine Syndrome;”
+ An accumulation of anecdotal interviews with self-selected persons living near a wind turbine does not constitute an epidemiological study and is not sufficient to determine causation;
+ The bases for claimed adverse health effects due to wind turbines cited by Mr. James either cannot withstand scientific scrutiny or have nothing to do with wind turbines; and
+ Siting a wind turbine within view of a residence and the operation of that turbine could be a source of annoyance to those living in the residence.
Geoff Leventhall, acoustical consultant, PhD in acoustics, presented testimony to rebut CWESt's acoustical consultant.
Based on my experience of infrasound and low frequency noise, it is my belief that the infrasound from wind turbines is of no consequence. Attempts to claim that illnesses result from inaudible wind turbine noise do not stand up to simple analyses of the very low forces and pressures produced by the sound from wind turbines. Additionally, the body is full of sound and vibration at infrasonic and low frequencies, originating in natural body processes. As an example, the beating heart is an obvious source of infrasound within the body. Other sources of background low frequency noise and vibration are blood flows, muscle vibrations, breathing, fluids in the gut and so on. The result is that any effect from wind turbine noise, or any other low level of noise, which might be produced within the body is “lost” in the existing background noise and vibration. This is considered in more detail in my Appraisal of Wind Turbine Syndrome, which is submitted as Exhibit 18.Read all of Leventhall’s testimony here.
More broadly, my testimony establishes that the claims of health effects from the low levels of infrasound and low frequency noise from wind turbines, as described in the Wind Turbine Syndrome and Vibroacoustic Disease hypotheses, fail. However, higher frequency noise from wind turbines, if it is audible, can cause disturbance to some residents, but this effect is no different from that of noise from another source.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Over 100 communities support “25x25” clean energy goal
From a news release issued by Govenor Jim Doyle:
MADISON - Governor Jim Doyle today announced over 100 communities have joined the Wisconsin Energy Independent Community Partnership. The communities, which come from every region of Wisconsin, have pledged to work toward Governor Doyle’s “25x25” goal of generating 25 percent of the state’s electricity and transportation fuels from renewable resources by the year 2025.
“I’m pleased that communities across Wisconsin have accepted my clean energy challenges head on,” Governor Doyle said. “Together we are making great strides toward energy policies that create jobs, clean our air and water, and save us money. I look forward to working with Energy Independent Communities as we continue Wisconsin’s clean energy leadership.”
The Wisconsin Energy Independent (EI) Community Partnership is the first of its kind in the nation and is an integral part of Clean Energy Wisconsin, Governor Doyle’s plan to move Wisconsin toward energy independence. The plan details strategies to move Wisconsin forward to promote renewable energy, create new jobs, increase energy security, and improve the environment.
The community partnership, which is led by the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence, helps individual communities take advantage of their unique resources and develop new strategies to foster innovative clean energy solutions.
New members of the Energy Independent Community Partnership include: City of Two Rivers in Manitowoc County, City of West Allis in Milwaukee County, City of New London in Outagamie County, Village of Stratford in Marathon County, City of Whitewater in Walworth County, City of Jefferson in Jefferson County, Village of Oxford in Marquette County and Iowa County.
MADISON - Governor Jim Doyle today announced over 100 communities have joined the Wisconsin Energy Independent Community Partnership. The communities, which come from every region of Wisconsin, have pledged to work toward Governor Doyle’s “25x25” goal of generating 25 percent of the state’s electricity and transportation fuels from renewable resources by the year 2025.
“I’m pleased that communities across Wisconsin have accepted my clean energy challenges head on,” Governor Doyle said. “Together we are making great strides toward energy policies that create jobs, clean our air and water, and save us money. I look forward to working with Energy Independent Communities as we continue Wisconsin’s clean energy leadership.”
The Wisconsin Energy Independent (EI) Community Partnership is the first of its kind in the nation and is an integral part of Clean Energy Wisconsin, Governor Doyle’s plan to move Wisconsin toward energy independence. The plan details strategies to move Wisconsin forward to promote renewable energy, create new jobs, increase energy security, and improve the environment.
The community partnership, which is led by the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence, helps individual communities take advantage of their unique resources and develop new strategies to foster innovative clean energy solutions.
New members of the Energy Independent Community Partnership include: City of Two Rivers in Manitowoc County, City of West Allis in Milwaukee County, City of New London in Outagamie County, Village of Stratford in Marathon County, City of Whitewater in Walworth County, City of Jefferson in Jefferson County, Village of Oxford in Marquette County and Iowa County.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Cranberry Growers Association gets grant to study wind and solar
From an article by in the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune:
MADISON — The Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association will receive a $16,500 grant to conduct energy audits on cranberry marshes, the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection announced Friday.
The Wisconsin Rapids-based association will partner with Focus on Energy to assess the feasibility of cranberry marshes as sites for wind and solar energy production. The study is one of 12 projects and eight state-facilitated programs to collectively garner nearly $750,000 awarded to make specialty crops more competitive.
MADISON — The Wisconsin State Cranberry Growers Association will receive a $16,500 grant to conduct energy audits on cranberry marshes, the state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection announced Friday.
The Wisconsin Rapids-based association will partner with Focus on Energy to assess the feasibility of cranberry marshes as sites for wind and solar energy production. The study is one of 12 projects and eight state-facilitated programs to collectively garner nearly $750,000 awarded to make specialty crops more competitive.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Three simple steps can save homeowners energy all year long
From a news release issued by Alliant Energy:
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – October 20, 2009 – October is Energy Awareness Month and Alliant Energy has three easy ways consumers can save energy, and best of all, they require little to no investment. Homeowners can lower their energy bills in three simple steps - turn down the thermostat, trade out traditional light bulbs for compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), and complete an energy audit.
“A cleaner environment and more sustainable future are important to many homeowners, and Energy Awareness Month is just another reminder that each of us can contribute to a global energy solution by using energy more efficiently,” said Linda Mattes, Director of Energy Efficiency and Renewables at Alliant Energy. “An added benefit is the money homeowners can save on their energy bill.”
Consumers can save approximately ten percent on their annual heating costs by taking the “10 Degree Challenge.” Simply turn the thermostat down by ten degrees for eight hours each day – and save money while working or sleeping.
After turning the thermostat down a few degrees, another easy and effective place to start saving is with lighting. Lighting accounts for 20 percent of the average home's electric bill. Using just one ENERGY STAR® qualified CFL can save an average of $30 or more in electricity costs over its lifetime and prevent more than 450 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions.
CFLs save money by using 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times longer than their old-fashioned counterparts. Because they produce more light than the traditional incandescent light bulbs, customers should purchase a CFL with a lower wattage to get the same amount of light.
Once a homeowner has looked at their thermostat settings and lighting, they can address the rest of the home with an energy audit. My Home Comfort Check Up, a free online audit, helps customers identify where their energy dollars are going. Homeowners can complete the online survey by visiting www.alliantenergy.com/mhcc.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – October 20, 2009 – October is Energy Awareness Month and Alliant Energy has three easy ways consumers can save energy, and best of all, they require little to no investment. Homeowners can lower their energy bills in three simple steps - turn down the thermostat, trade out traditional light bulbs for compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), and complete an energy audit.
“A cleaner environment and more sustainable future are important to many homeowners, and Energy Awareness Month is just another reminder that each of us can contribute to a global energy solution by using energy more efficiently,” said Linda Mattes, Director of Energy Efficiency and Renewables at Alliant Energy. “An added benefit is the money homeowners can save on their energy bill.”
Consumers can save approximately ten percent on their annual heating costs by taking the “10 Degree Challenge.” Simply turn the thermostat down by ten degrees for eight hours each day – and save money while working or sleeping.
After turning the thermostat down a few degrees, another easy and effective place to start saving is with lighting. Lighting accounts for 20 percent of the average home's electric bill. Using just one ENERGY STAR® qualified CFL can save an average of $30 or more in electricity costs over its lifetime and prevent more than 450 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions.
CFLs save money by using 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times longer than their old-fashioned counterparts. Because they produce more light than the traditional incandescent light bulbs, customers should purchase a CFL with a lower wattage to get the same amount of light.
Once a homeowner has looked at their thermostat settings and lighting, they can address the rest of the home with an energy audit. My Home Comfort Check Up, a free online audit, helps customers identify where their energy dollars are going. Homeowners can complete the online survey by visiting www.alliantenergy.com/mhcc.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
Alliant Energy: More money available for energy assistance
From a story in The Capital Times:
With winter approaching, Alliant Energy is urging qualified utility customers to apply for energy assistance.
The company says more households are eligible for assistance due to the economic downturn, so people are urged to apply as soon as possible through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). Residents can apply with their local county office through May 15, 2010, or until funds are exhausted.
The dollar amount of the payment varies, but the program will help households with incomes at or below 60 percent of the state median income. This means a family of four that makes about $45,000 or less per year, or a two-person household making $30,600 or less, may qualify for assistance.
Frank Galle, Alliant Energy senior manager of customer support, recommends that customers who think they may qualify apply right away.
"In these challenging economic times, it's important that people know that they do not have to wait until they are behind on their utility bills to receive energy assistance," said Galle. "We encourage customers to check their eligibility now and apply as soon as possible if they qualify for funds."
Customers can find their nearest county agency by calling 1-866-432-8947 or by visiting http://www.homeenergyplus.wi.gov.
With winter approaching, Alliant Energy is urging qualified utility customers to apply for energy assistance.
The company says more households are eligible for assistance due to the economic downturn, so people are urged to apply as soon as possible through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). Residents can apply with their local county office through May 15, 2010, or until funds are exhausted.
The dollar amount of the payment varies, but the program will help households with incomes at or below 60 percent of the state median income. This means a family of four that makes about $45,000 or less per year, or a two-person household making $30,600 or less, may qualify for assistance.
Frank Galle, Alliant Energy senior manager of customer support, recommends that customers who think they may qualify apply right away.
"In these challenging economic times, it's important that people know that they do not have to wait until they are behind on their utility bills to receive energy assistance," said Galle. "We encourage customers to check their eligibility now and apply as soon as possible if they qualify for funds."
Customers can find their nearest county agency by calling 1-866-432-8947 or by visiting http://www.homeenergyplus.wi.gov.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Healthy Air Tip of the Month: Learn before you burn
From an article by the NEW Air Coalition of Fond du Lac County in the Fond du Lac Reporter:
As cold weather sweeps in, more and more Wisconsinites turn to outdoor wood boilers to heat their homes.
Wood is a renewable fuel, and the operating costs of wood burners often seem lower than natural gas or electric heat. But we often overlook the cost to air quality.
Because outdoor wood boilers burn over long periods of time and can use green or partially dried wood, they can produce 10 times the smoke of other wood-burning heat sources. Burning wood produces more fine-particle pollution than burning coal, says UW-Extension Pollution Prevention Specialist David Liebl. Inhaling fine particles, even over short periods of time, can aggravate lung conditions like asthma and bring on heart attacks or arrhythmia.
At this time, there aren't many regulations governing residential wood burning. The amount of emissions can vary by the type of appliance, type of wood, moisture content, air damper setting and weather conditions.
Some municipalities have rules on where outdoor wood boilers can be located, restrictions on when they can be used (such as a ban during air quality alerts), or prohibit them outright.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has determined that neighboring residents are at risk of adverse health effects if they can see visible plumes or smell the wood smoke.
To minimize the risks, only clean, dry wood should be used as heating fuel. Because price and performance of wood as fuel can vary, residents do not always see the cost savings they hoped for.
As cold weather sweeps in, more and more Wisconsinites turn to outdoor wood boilers to heat their homes.
Wood is a renewable fuel, and the operating costs of wood burners often seem lower than natural gas or electric heat. But we often overlook the cost to air quality.
Because outdoor wood boilers burn over long periods of time and can use green or partially dried wood, they can produce 10 times the smoke of other wood-burning heat sources. Burning wood produces more fine-particle pollution than burning coal, says UW-Extension Pollution Prevention Specialist David Liebl. Inhaling fine particles, even over short periods of time, can aggravate lung conditions like asthma and bring on heart attacks or arrhythmia.
At this time, there aren't many regulations governing residential wood burning. The amount of emissions can vary by the type of appliance, type of wood, moisture content, air damper setting and weather conditions.
Some municipalities have rules on where outdoor wood boilers can be located, restrictions on when they can be used (such as a ban during air quality alerts), or prohibit them outright.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has determined that neighboring residents are at risk of adverse health effects if they can see visible plumes or smell the wood smoke.
To minimize the risks, only clean, dry wood should be used as heating fuel. Because price and performance of wood as fuel can vary, residents do not always see the cost savings they hoped for.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Uniformity beats local control
From an editorial in the Dubuque Telegraph Herald:
Whether you're talking about hog confinement lots or wind farms, the message is the same: Uniform regulation throughout a state trumps local control.
The arguments over the siting of wind projects in Wisconsin during the past year sound much like the discussions several years ago about hog lots in Iowa. In both cases, having consistent guidelines makes sense. Iowa was operating under 99 sets of rules, with every county deciding its parameters for hog lots. Counties argued for local control. But the need for consistency made the stronger case. Eventually, a bipartisan state committee hammered out one set of rules. That made sense.
Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle is looking to do the same thing. He signed a law ordering the Public Service Commission to establish uniform standards regulating the construction and operation of wind energy systems. Not only is the approach more fair, it could save individual townships and counties lots of headaches.
Without uniform siting, communities were left to make these tough decisions on their own -- with strong constituent opinions Advertisement
on either side. In the face of public concern, trustees in southwest Wisconsin's Smelser Township passed moratoriums banning all wind projects. They apparently violated state open meetings law in the process, making decisions without properly notifying the public. Trustees say the moratorium was in response to citizens' concern that wind turbines pose a health risk.
Whether you're talking about hog confinement lots or wind farms, the message is the same: Uniform regulation throughout a state trumps local control.
The arguments over the siting of wind projects in Wisconsin during the past year sound much like the discussions several years ago about hog lots in Iowa. In both cases, having consistent guidelines makes sense. Iowa was operating under 99 sets of rules, with every county deciding its parameters for hog lots. Counties argued for local control. But the need for consistency made the stronger case. Eventually, a bipartisan state committee hammered out one set of rules. That made sense.
Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle is looking to do the same thing. He signed a law ordering the Public Service Commission to establish uniform standards regulating the construction and operation of wind energy systems. Not only is the approach more fair, it could save individual townships and counties lots of headaches.
Without uniform siting, communities were left to make these tough decisions on their own -- with strong constituent opinions Advertisement
on either side. In the face of public concern, trustees in southwest Wisconsin's Smelser Township passed moratoriums banning all wind projects. They apparently violated state open meetings law in the process, making decisions without properly notifying the public. Trustees say the moratorium was in response to citizens' concern that wind turbines pose a health risk.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
A furnace checkup is good start to saving energy
From an article by Shelly Birkelo in the Jansville Gazette:
JANESVILLE — Have you broken down and turned on your furnace yet?
It's natural to wait as long as possible in an effort to keep your winter heating costs down.
There are, however, other ways to spend less money and save energy starting with an annual furnace inspection.
"It will probably cost between $50 and $100, but it is important to make sure your furnace is running correctly and efficiently,'' said Steven Schultz, Alliant Energy communications program manager.
A checkup also will clean out dust or dirt, he said.
"Dust and dirt can clog vital parts, making your furnace run harder and eventually break down,'' Schultz said.
It's also the best prevention against deadly carbon monoxide poisoning, according to Alliant's monthly Natural Gas update newsletter.
To find an energy-smart heating contractor in your area, visit alliantenergy.com/ dealerlocator.
A home energy evaluation also can help consumers understand where their energy is going, Schultz said.
"It can show you where heat is escaping during the winter, for example, and will provide you with a blueprint for weatherizing your home," he said.
For details about how you can do a home energy audit, visit www.alliantenergy.com/utilityservices/foryourhome/easyenergysavers/014671, Schultz said.
Focus on Energy, Wisconsin's statewide energy-efficiency and renewable energy initiative, also is a good source for energy and money-savings tips, Schultz said.
It is funded by all of the state's utilities and can be accessed by visiting www.focusonenergy.com or calling 1-800-762-7077, he said.
JANESVILLE — Have you broken down and turned on your furnace yet?
It's natural to wait as long as possible in an effort to keep your winter heating costs down.
There are, however, other ways to spend less money and save energy starting with an annual furnace inspection.
"It will probably cost between $50 and $100, but it is important to make sure your furnace is running correctly and efficiently,'' said Steven Schultz, Alliant Energy communications program manager.
A checkup also will clean out dust or dirt, he said.
"Dust and dirt can clog vital parts, making your furnace run harder and eventually break down,'' Schultz said.
It's also the best prevention against deadly carbon monoxide poisoning, according to Alliant's monthly Natural Gas update newsletter.
To find an energy-smart heating contractor in your area, visit alliantenergy.com/ dealerlocator.
A home energy evaluation also can help consumers understand where their energy is going, Schultz said.
"It can show you where heat is escaping during the winter, for example, and will provide you with a blueprint for weatherizing your home," he said.
For details about how you can do a home energy audit, visit www.alliantenergy.com/utilityservices/foryourhome/easyenergysavers/014671, Schultz said.
Focus on Energy, Wisconsin's statewide energy-efficiency and renewable energy initiative, also is a good source for energy and money-savings tips, Schultz said.
It is funded by all of the state's utilities and can be accessed by visiting www.focusonenergy.com or calling 1-800-762-7077, he said.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Sustainability and biocomposites seen as growth areas
From an article by Steve Cahalan in the Winona Daily News:
LA CROSSE, Wis. - The Walmart discount chain is committed to environmental sustainability, which is what its customers want, a company official said Thursday at the second Bioplastic and Biocomposite Supply Chain Conference.
Meanwhile, two local officials said in interviews they anticipate growth in bioplastics and biocomposites manufacturing, which involves using such things as plant-derived fibers and crops such as corn as ingredients.
About 90 people at the event at the Radisson Hotel in La Crosse heard presentations on the future of bioplastics and biocomposites. The conference was hosted by the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence, the 7 Rivers Alliance and Winona State University.
"Every sector of our company is involved in sustainability and looking at ways that we can incorporate sustainable practices into our business and be a better corporate neighbor, take care of our planet and most of all, give our customers what they want," said Lisa Nelson, Walmart senior manager of public affairs for Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa.
Walmart in October 2005 announced three core sustainability goals - to be supplied 100 percent by renewable energy, to create zero waste and to sell products that sustain resources and the environment.
Nelson gave examples of the company working toward these goals, such as reducing packaging, more efficient transportation practices that reduce fuel consumption by trucks, and constructing energy-efficient buildings.
LA CROSSE, Wis. - The Walmart discount chain is committed to environmental sustainability, which is what its customers want, a company official said Thursday at the second Bioplastic and Biocomposite Supply Chain Conference.
Meanwhile, two local officials said in interviews they anticipate growth in bioplastics and biocomposites manufacturing, which involves using such things as plant-derived fibers and crops such as corn as ingredients.
About 90 people at the event at the Radisson Hotel in La Crosse heard presentations on the future of bioplastics and biocomposites. The conference was hosted by the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence, the 7 Rivers Alliance and Winona State University.
"Every sector of our company is involved in sustainability and looking at ways that we can incorporate sustainable practices into our business and be a better corporate neighbor, take care of our planet and most of all, give our customers what they want," said Lisa Nelson, Walmart senior manager of public affairs for Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa.
Walmart in October 2005 announced three core sustainability goals - to be supplied 100 percent by renewable energy, to create zero waste and to sell products that sustain resources and the environment.
Nelson gave examples of the company working toward these goals, such as reducing packaging, more efficient transportation practices that reduce fuel consumption by trucks, and constructing energy-efficient buildings.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Renewable energy system at City Brewery begins generating electricity
From an article by Steve Cahalan in the La Crosse Tribune:
With the flip of a switch Wednesday, a new renewable energy system at City Brewery's wastewater pretreatment plant began generating electricity from methane gas previously flared off as waste.
The Gundersen Lutheran-owned system resulted from a unique partnership between the health care provider and the brewery.
It is part of Gundersen Lutheran's plan to lower its energy costs and be energy independent by 2014, through conservation efforts and renewable energy projects.
The brewery project is expected to generate about
3 million kilowatt hours a year, about 8 percent of the electricity used at Gundersen Lutheran's La Crosse and Onalaska campuses. That also is enough electricity to power 299 homes, Gundersen Lutheran officials said.
With the new system, biogas from the brewery's pretreatment plant is cleaned by removing water and impurities. What's left is methane gas that is burned in the system's engine.
Heat generated from the engine is captured and recycled back to produce heat for the brewery's waste treatment process.
Brewery waste goes to its pretreatment plant before being sent to the city of La Crosse's nearby wastewater treatment plant. Gundersen Lutheran officials said Wednesday it's possible that biogas from the city's plant also might be used to create electricity in the future.
With the flip of a switch Wednesday, a new renewable energy system at City Brewery's wastewater pretreatment plant began generating electricity from methane gas previously flared off as waste.
The Gundersen Lutheran-owned system resulted from a unique partnership between the health care provider and the brewery.
It is part of Gundersen Lutheran's plan to lower its energy costs and be energy independent by 2014, through conservation efforts and renewable energy projects.
The brewery project is expected to generate about
3 million kilowatt hours a year, about 8 percent of the electricity used at Gundersen Lutheran's La Crosse and Onalaska campuses. That also is enough electricity to power 299 homes, Gundersen Lutheran officials said.
With the new system, biogas from the brewery's pretreatment plant is cleaned by removing water and impurities. What's left is methane gas that is burned in the system's engine.
Heat generated from the engine is captured and recycled back to produce heat for the brewery's waste treatment process.
Brewery waste goes to its pretreatment plant before being sent to the city of La Crosse's nearby wastewater treatment plant. Gundersen Lutheran officials said Wednesday it's possible that biogas from the city's plant also might be used to create electricity in the future.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Law knocks wind out of Smelser moratorium
From an article by Draig D. Reber of the Herald Tribune (Dubuque, Iowa):
TOWN OF SMELSER, Wis. -- To paraphrase a southwest Wisconsin lawmaker, now the devil is in the details.
On Wednesday, Gov. Jim Doyle signed a bill that calls for state regulators to come up with statewide rules for wind farms.
The state Public Service Commission's rules will trump any local ordinances, including several moratoriums enacted by the Smelser Town Board of Trustees.
A moratorium enacted on June 8 resulted in charges being brought against Arnie Rawson, of rural Platteville, and Robert Droessler, of rural Cuba City, for violating open meetings law. They are accused of taking action on a matter without public notice.
"It was a minor mistake, we tried to rectify it (at our next meeting), and we couldn't, according to state law," Rawson said. "It's happened before in other places. It's no new thing."
The board later went on to enact a moratorium in August on the White Oak wind project that includes parts of Smelser, Hazel Green and Paris townships. However, Senate Bill 185 and the ensuing action by Doyle to enact a uniform siting law trump the moratorium.
Wind developers say local officials have created a patchwork of regulations across the state that are so restrictive they are suffocating their projects. Local leaders say they are just looking out for people's health.
TOWN OF SMELSER, Wis. -- To paraphrase a southwest Wisconsin lawmaker, now the devil is in the details.
On Wednesday, Gov. Jim Doyle signed a bill that calls for state regulators to come up with statewide rules for wind farms.
The state Public Service Commission's rules will trump any local ordinances, including several moratoriums enacted by the Smelser Town Board of Trustees.
A moratorium enacted on June 8 resulted in charges being brought against Arnie Rawson, of rural Platteville, and Robert Droessler, of rural Cuba City, for violating open meetings law. They are accused of taking action on a matter without public notice.
"It was a minor mistake, we tried to rectify it (at our next meeting), and we couldn't, according to state law," Rawson said. "It's happened before in other places. It's no new thing."
The board later went on to enact a moratorium in August on the White Oak wind project that includes parts of Smelser, Hazel Green and Paris townships. However, Senate Bill 185 and the ensuing action by Doyle to enact a uniform siting law trump the moratorium.
Wind developers say local officials have created a patchwork of regulations across the state that are so restrictive they are suffocating their projects. Local leaders say they are just looking out for people's health.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Wisconsin Solar Tour, October 2-3, 2009
From the Midwest Renewable Energy Association:
Visit homes and businesses with renewable energy systems during the Wisconsin Solar Tour!
Self-Guided Tours
Businesses - Friday, October 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Homes - Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tour sites are owned, lived in, and worked in by ordinary people. They are helping others open the door to renewable energy. The Wisconsin Solar Tour is part of the National Solar Tour coordinated by the American Solar Energy Society.
Click here for a list of businesses and houses open in southwestern Wisconsin.
Visit homes and businesses with renewable energy systems during the Wisconsin Solar Tour!
Self-Guided Tours
Businesses - Friday, October 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Homes - Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tour sites are owned, lived in, and worked in by ordinary people. They are helping others open the door to renewable energy. The Wisconsin Solar Tour is part of the National Solar Tour coordinated by the American Solar Energy Society.
Click here for a list of businesses and houses open in southwestern Wisconsin.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
CFLs continue to provide savings in Wisconsin
From a news release issued by Focus on Energy:
(October 1, 2009) – Wisconsinites continue to realize the financial and energy savings of installing ENERGY STAR® qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in their homes. And now, for a limited time, Focus on Energy is offering CFLs for a discounted price at participating retail locations throughout the state.
Focus, Wisconsin’s statewide resource for energy efficiency and renewable energy information, is launching the annual promotion October 1, 2009.
CFLs that have earned the ENERGY STAR last up to 10 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs and are 75 percent more efficient - saving as much as $30 over the course of their lifetime. In addition, the bulbs produce 75 percent less heat than their standard counterparts, making them safer to operate.
“Over the past several years, thousands of residents throughout Wisconsin have reduced their energy use and utility bills by installing ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs, but there are still many who have not made the switch,” said Rhonda Pittman, Lighting Program Manager. “In these tough economic times, there is no better time to install a product that will save money while also helping Wisconsin’s environment.”
While financial savings associated with using CFLs remain one of the primary reasons Wisconsin residents opt for them, CFLs also offer environmental benefits. Because qualified bulbs use so much less energy to operate, less pollution is being generated.
(October 1, 2009) – Wisconsinites continue to realize the financial and energy savings of installing ENERGY STAR® qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) in their homes. And now, for a limited time, Focus on Energy is offering CFLs for a discounted price at participating retail locations throughout the state.
Focus, Wisconsin’s statewide resource for energy efficiency and renewable energy information, is launching the annual promotion October 1, 2009.
CFLs that have earned the ENERGY STAR last up to 10 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs and are 75 percent more efficient - saving as much as $30 over the course of their lifetime. In addition, the bulbs produce 75 percent less heat than their standard counterparts, making them safer to operate.
“Over the past several years, thousands of residents throughout Wisconsin have reduced their energy use and utility bills by installing ENERGY STAR qualified CFLs, but there are still many who have not made the switch,” said Rhonda Pittman, Lighting Program Manager. “In these tough economic times, there is no better time to install a product that will save money while also helping Wisconsin’s environment.”
While financial savings associated with using CFLs remain one of the primary reasons Wisconsin residents opt for them, CFLs also offer environmental benefits. Because qualified bulbs use so much less energy to operate, less pollution is being generated.
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