text: Milwaukee Renewable Energy: August 2009
  From an article by Charles Brace in the Wisconsin State Journal:TOWN OF BYRON — Retired mail carrier Gerry Meyer said he only sleeps two hours a night because of the constant swooshing sound and that his wife has started taking sleep medication. His neighbor Nick Gonnering in South Byron, who lives just as close to the noise, said he finds the sound "relaxing."Either way, the sound of wind turbines is making more ears perk up as a bill moves forward in the Legislature that would empower the Public Service Commission to create statewide rules governing wind power and pre-empt local government control over their placement.The rules would govern the distance between turbines and homes along with their noise and the flicker effects of shadows from their turbine blades. . . .Connie Reich of the town of Byron in Fond du Lac County said she felt like she had no say in the wind project near her home. But, she said developer Invenergy does give $500 every December to her and other people in the community and that residents with turbines on their land get paid significantly more."If I had a choice, I'd rather have a turbine than a subdivision," Reich said.Byron resident Gerry Meyer said the noise has led to sleep loss and, as a result, high blood pressure."This wind factory has completely taken away our quality of life. We can rarely go outside without being stressed by the various sounds," Meyer said in an e-mail.Timothy Allen, professor of botany and environmental studies at UW-Madison and an expert on renewable energy, said any health effects are likely self-induced and psychological."I think it's people who don't want their skyline messed up," Allen said.
  The energy track presentations have been release for the Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing Pavilion at the Wisconisn Machine Tool Show, October 6-8, at State Fair Park:TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 20099:00am Green and LeanPresented by Dr. Joe Jacobsen of MATC11:00am Controlling Your Energy Costs – An Overview Of Focus On EnergyPresented by Nate Altfeather of Focus on Energy1:00pm Opportunities To Supply The US Wind IndustryPresented by Jeffrey Anthony of American Wind Energy Association3:00pm Energy Efficiency In Manufacturing FacilitiesPresented by Orion Energy SystemsWEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 200910:00am A Case Study On Energy EfficiencyPresented by Nate Altfeather of Focus On Energy11:30am Starve The Beast! Revolutionary Ideas On How To Save Money Operating Your Ventilation SystemsPresented by DuWayne Bohrer of iVEC™ Systems and Kevin Rohde of Hastings Air Energy Control Inc1:00pm New Manufacturing Opportunities In Stimulus FundingPresented by Maria Redmond of Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence3:00pm Opportunities For Cooperation In The Renewable Supply ChainPresented by Mark Tomkins of GermanAmerican Chamber of Commerce of the MidwestTHURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 200910:00am Sociable Responsibility In IndustryPresented by American Society for Quality12:00pm Save Energy, Save MoneyPresented by Alex Dodd of Focus on EnergyEnergy track seminars sponsored by Focus on Energy.
  A news release issued by RENEW Wisconsin:At its open meeting today, the Public Service Commission (PSC) called for the expansion of voluntary utility programs that offer premium rates for in-state sources of renewable energy. Today's discussion marked the first time the PSC took up the issue of premium renewable energy buyback rates since it opened a docket in January to investigate the viability of a statewide policy governing utility purchases of solar, wind and biogas energy generated by their customers. "While we would have preferred a policy-driven approach to making homegrown renewable energy a bigger part of Wisconsin's energy future, we are heartened that the PSC will direct utilities to produce plans for encouraging more customer investments in this market sector," said Michael Vickerman, executive director of RENEW Wisconsin, a Madison-based sustainable energy advocacy organization.During the PSC's investigation, RENEW Wisconsin submitted comments advocating for the establishment of fixed-rate, technology-specific payments pegged at the production cost of the facility. Where offered, these premiums—also known as Advanced Renewable Tariffs—have significantly increased private investment in distributed sources of renewable energy. Earlier this year, the State of Vermont passed a law mandating premium rates for renewable energy, the first in the nation to do so.Several years ago, RENEW and other organizations helped We Energies design and launch a voluntary program for encouraging customer ownership of renewable energy systems, including the state's first premium solar rate. "We hope the state's utilities will take advantage of our experience in this area and work collaboratively to develop renewable energy premium plans that will work," Vickerman said.
  From an article in the Business Journal of Milwaukee:University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering, Marquette University and several regional companies have formed an energy technology and research center, it was announced Wednesday.The Southeastern Wisconsin Energy Technology Research Center, which will be administered out of UWM, brings together regional resources to establish a national center that will develop high-potential research in the energy field, attracting large-scale funding and leading state-of-the-art technology that can foster economic growth, the institutions said in a press release.Seven collaborative research projects centered at various locations are under way, with the support of $200,000 in federal funding and nearly $500,000 from several regional industries and foundations, including the Rockwell Automation Charitable Corp., the Wisconsin Energy Foundation, The Bradley Foundation, Eaton Corp., Kohler Co., American Transmission Co., DRS Technologies and ReGENco. . . .Researchers from the universities and industries will collaborate on research into wind power, new materials for rechargeable batteries, algae for carbon recycling and fuel, ultra-efficient nanomaterials for cogeneration, sustainable building retrofitting, integration of renewable energy, and cutting nitrogen-oxide emissions and energy consumption.
  From Milwaukee Shines:The . . . map features 65 of the estimated 175 homes and businesses with solar energy installations in the 7-county Milwaukee metro area.The City of Milwaukee, through the Solar America Cities program, has a goal of installing at least 100 solar electric systems and 50 solar hot water systems with a combined production of one megawatt of solar energy in Milwaukee by 2012.Using data from Focus on Energy, Milwaukee Shines estimates that the City of Milwaukee currently has approximately 30 solar electric systems and 20 solar hot water systems in operation that produce a combined 350 kW of energy.Help us reach our goal! Solar is a viable energy source in southeastern Wisconsin. Contact Milwaukee Shines, Focus on Energy, or We Energies to find out if you qualify for a solar installation incentive.Finally, if you have a solar energy system on your home or business and would like to be featured on our map, please contact Andrea Luecke at 414-286-5593 or aluecke@milwaukee.gov.
  The Wisconsin Renewable Quarterly includes these article in the summer edition:It's Time to Bring Renewable Energy HomeIn Memoriam: Bob Gilbertson Board Member Brings Green HomeRenewables Profile: Jenny HeinzenManure Digesters Good Fit Solar Innovator: Craig Tarr Calendar
  The Wisconsin Machine Tool Show (WMTS) features an Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing Pavilion to introduce show participants to energy efficient, lean, green, and sustainable manufacturing processes.The American Wind Energy Association will have a presentation on the wind industry supply chain. Dave Jenkins from the Office of Energy Independence will update show attendees on ARRA programs and funds. The German-American Chamber of Commerce will make two presentations:+ Energy Efficiency in Germany: How U.S. Manufacturers Can Benefit;+ Supply Chain Opportunities in Renewable Energy. Focus on Energy will be the Gold Sponsor of the Energy Efficiency in Manufacturing Pavilion. They plan to make a presentation each day of the show: + Controlling your Energy Costs - An overview of Focus on Energy; + A Case Study on Energy Efficiency; + Save Energy, Save Money - Getting started with energy self-assessments for small-mid size industrial facilities. MATC's Center for Energy Conservation and Advanced Manufacturing and RENEW are also sponsors.
  From the Web page of the Solar Decade:Join renowned industry experts as they discuss the benefits of solar energy for your home, business and career!Now in its fifth year, the Wisconsin Solar Decade Conference is your opportunity to see firsthand the latest developments in the world of solar energy. Register today to hear from top industry experts and attend dozens of exhibits, workshops and panel discussions as you discover the state of the technology, the state of the market and where both will be tomorrow!•Learn about the latest solar energy applications for your home and business•Discover opportunities to tap the renewable energy market and expand your business•Network with fellow builders, contractors, homeowners and business ownersKeynote speakersDr. Lawrence L. KazmerskiExecutive Director of Science and Technology Partnerships, National Renewable Energy LaboratoryDr. Lawrence L. Kazmerski, executive director of science and technology partnerships at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado, is a solar-energy industry veteran who has authored hundreds of journal papers and several books on solar photovoltaics. For his years of research and work, "Kaz" has received recognition both nationally and internationally. Travis BradfordFounder and President - Prometheus Institute for Sustainable DevelopmentTravis Bradford is founder and president of the Prometheus Institute for Sustainable Development, a nonprofit organization focused on harnessing the power of the business sector to develop cost-effective and sustainable solutions in technology. In his most recent book, Solar Revolution, Bradford argues that solar energy will become the best and cheapest choice for energy over the next 20 years. Register here.
  From a news release issued by the Department of Workforce Development:WISCONSIN RAPIDS – On behalf of Governor Jim Doyle, Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Roberta Gassman today awarded a $100,000 workforce training grant to prepare the first of 400 workers for green jobs when a new Wisconsin Rapids business starts manufacturing wind turbine blades. . . .The $100,000 grant awarded to the North Central Wisconsin Workforce Development Board will be matched by more than $60,000 locally. Among the goals of the Renewable Electric Power project is to train 35 individuals, including dislocated workers, for the first openings at the Energy Composites Corporation. Earlier this year, the firm announced its plans to construct of a 350,000-square-foot, composites fabrication plant to manufacture wind turbine blades.As part of the project, Mid-State Technical College is creating a 12-credit Composite Certificate, intensive , short-term, customized training in turbine blade fabrication. The 35 trainees are to complete six-months of instruction in June, allowing others to enter the pipeline for employment opportunities at the plant. In the process, the project will develop a green job career pathway for the emerging renewable energy sector in the north central region."This is our future," Secretary Gassman said, "seizing green opportunities that will create good jobs for our citizens and fuel economic growth in the emerging industries of renewable energy, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing."
  From an article in The Business Journal of Milwaukee:Concordia University Wisconsin is installing a $250,000 solar electric system on its Mequon campus.The system is expected to generate more than 30,000 kilowatt hours of power and will be mounted on Coburg Residence Hall. The project is part of the school's "green" efforts.About $170,000 of the project cost will be covered by incentives and grants including a $100,000 contribution from We Energies along with with $23,000 as part of a We Energies buy down program and a $47,000 Focus on Energy 2009 Solar Electric Implementation Grant.
  From a news release issued by Focus on Energy:(August 12, 2009) - Like many Wisconsin businesses, Columbia Grinding, Inc. started out with a dream, a lot of hard work and limited resources. In 1953 the business opened as a 1,800-square-foot one-man shop in South Milwaukee. By 1978, the production workload grew and the first employee was hired. Today, Columbia Grinding has grown to 35 employees and a 43,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in the Oak Creek Industrial Park.Although the company's values remain the same, over the years Columbia Grinding has enhanced its energy efficiency and high-performance standards to power its state-of-the-art equipment, processes and services.With the help of Focus on Energy, Wisconsin's energy efficiency and renewable energy initiative, Columbia Grinding's Oak Creek, Wis. plant has reduced energy consumption by more than 230,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity and 14,000 therms of natural gas - enough energy to power 40 houses for a year. The company will also save $33,500 on its energy bills each year.Since 2008, Columbia Grinding has received $13,500 in cash incentives from Focus on Energy to boost its efforts toward becoming more energy efficient. The biggest energy saver was an innovative air filtration system installed last month that will significantly reduce the facility's heating and air conditioning loads. The system connects with the existing energy management system to provide automated control of the make-up air and exhaust in the main production area.
  From an article by Mike Ivey in The Capital Times:The experts continue to debate the pros and cons of the "Cash for Clunkers" rebate program, but Wisconsin car buyers have already given it a big thumbs-up.Wisconsin is 10th in the amount of cash requested from the program based on figures from the U.S. Department of Transportation released this week.Of the nearly $775 million in clunker cash requests so far, more than $24 million came from Wisconsin. Michigan, California and Ohio were the top three states.The U.S. Senate has approved another $2 billion for the program, which was initially funded with $1 billion.Officially known as the Car Allowance Rebate System Act, the measure provides up to $4,500 in taxpayer subsidy for those who trade in an old vehicle for a more efficient model. To qualify, the old car needs to get 18 miles per gallon or less while the new one must get at least 22 mpg.
  Wind energy needs vocal support in Wisconsin! The need for renewable energy in Wisconsin continues to grow. In October 2008, We Energies proposed the Glacier Hills Wind Park in the towns of Randolph and Scott in Columbia County – approximate 45 miles northeast of Madison. The Glacier Hills Wind Park would consist of 90 turbines and generate 162 megawatts of electricity - enough capacity to power approximately 45,000 homes. Comments are due regarding the Environmental Impact of the project by September 4, 2009. Now is the time for those of us who believe that wind power is good for the environment and good for Wisconsin to speak out and be heard. If opponents are successful in their quest, the future of wind energy in Wisconsin will be seriously called into question.Please encourage the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) to approve the construction of the Glacier Hills Wind Park and the need for more wind energy in Wisconsin by submitting comments to the PSC– click here.If you would rather submit comments in writing or by email: All comments should reference the PSC docket number: 6630-CE-302 Written comments can be sent to: Jim Lepinski – Docket Coordinator Public Service Commission P.O. Box 7854 Madison, WI 53707-7854
  From an article on the Milwaukee Consumer:The Wisconsin State Fair kicks off tomorrow, August 6th, and runs through August 16th. If you do visit the Fair, you might want to consider stopping by the WE Energies Energy Park to learn more about electricity, natural gas, and energy efficiency. The Park is located along the West side of the fairgrounds (along 84th street) and is just North of Gate 4.Focus on Energy has a game show called "Watt's it to Ya" at the WE Energies Energy Park at 6:30pm each evening. The game show pits contestants against each other to identify the greatest energy users in a home. If you beat your competitor and move on to the showcase, you have a chance to prove your skills and learn how much you can save by using energy efficiency in your home. To review the complete list of activities at the WE Energies Energy Park, visit the WE Energies website.
  From a news release issued by Johnson Controls:DETROIT, Aug. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson Controls, Inc. (NYSE: JCI) today announced that it has been awarded a $299 million grant by the United States Department of Energy under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to build domestic manufacturing capacity for advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles. This award represents approximately half of the company's total planned investment of $600 million in domestic advanced battery manufacturing capacity and infrastructure development."This investment is an important step toward creating and building an industry in the United States that addresses market requirements and long-term opportunities for growth and new jobs in this country," said Alex Molinaroli, president of Power Solutions for Johnson Controls. "We have assembled a world-class team of suppliers and automotive manufacturers, and we believe this comprehensive approach will enable the United States to establish a domestic industry that is competitive, economically viable and sustainable."In April, Johnson Controls and its joint venture partner Saft announced that Johnson Controls-Saft was awarded incentives for $148.5 million from the State of Michigan for the establishment of a U.S. manufacturing facility for lithium-ion cells and complete hybrid battery systems in Holland, Michigan. The Holland, Michigan facility will serve the company's global customers, including Ford, for its first plug-in hybrid vehicle for 2012, Azure Dynamics, for its 2010 launch of the next generation Balance™ Hybrid Electric commercial vehicle, Daimler AG and BMW.
  The Wisconsin State Fair runs from August 6 thorugh the 16th.NEW! WAUKESHA COUNTY AREA SHUTTLE Jump on the new Waukesha County Area Shuttle Service that will drop-off and make return trips from the U.S. Cellular Main Gate. The shuttle will run every 30 minutes starting at 7:30am with the last departure 30 minutes after the Fair closes. Pick-up the shuttle at the Hwy 83/I-94, Hwy G/I-94 and Barker Road/Goerkes Corners Park-N-Rides. Regular round trip fare is $8.00 but $6.00 with discount coupons. Seniors $6.00 and children 5 & under FREE. For more details visit statefairshuttle.com or call (262) 292-9992 Riteway Bus Service – Washington County Area State Fair ShuttleEnjoy an air conditioned motor coach ride with Riteway's daily round-trip service to the 2009 Wisconsin State Fair. Motor coach departs from two locations in Washington County beginning at 8:30 a.m. from Washington County Fairgrounds and at 9:30 a.m. from Germantown. Fares are $12 adults aged 12-59; $10 seniors 60+ and disabled; $5.00 children aged 7-11 and children under 7, free. For boarding locations and departure times please visit www.ritewaybus.com or call 262-677-3282.Pedal to the Park Presented by wheel & sprocketGetting to the State Fair just got easier, healthier and more affordable. The State Fair encourages guests to save on gas, leave their cars at home and "Pedal to the Park" instead. In collaboration with the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, FREE dedicated bicycle parking will be offered outside of the U.S. Cellular Main Gate on the north side of the Fair Park (enter from 76th Street at Gate 8, near the RV Park) and inside Gate 2 on the south side of the Fair Park (enter from Greenfield Avenue). Spaces are limited. RIDE THE BUS!Riding the bus to the Fair is easy, convenient, and economical. To determine the public transportation option that best suits your needs, call the Milwaukee County Transit System Bus Line at 414.344.6711 or visit RideMCTS.com. Remember, children (6 & under) ride FREE. MILWAUKEE COUNTY TRANSIT SYSTEM SHUTTLESThe shuttle from Watertown Plank Road Park & Ride Lot at HWY 45 operates to the State Fair Transit Center near Gate 4 every day of the Fair. Shuttles operate every 15 minutes from 7:30am until one half-hour after Fair closure. Shuttle fares are only $3 round-trip for adults (ages 12 - 64) and $1.50 for children (ages 7-11), seniors (65 & over) and disabled persons with proper I.D. Parking is FREE.FREEWAY FLYERSPark FREE at any of the following Park-Ride lots: Brown Deer Road west of I-43; Loomis Road at I-894; Green Bay Road just north of Brown Deer Road; Southridge Mall Parking Lot on Edgerton Avenue at 72nd Street; Whitnall / Hales Corners at I-43 east of South 108th Street; MATC-South at Jewell Ave. at Howell Ave. Buses drop off and pick up at the State Fair Transit Center near Gate 4.Freeway Flyers operate between 7:30am until one half-hour after Fair closure. Service is every half-hour EXCEPT at the Brown Deer and Green Bay Park & Ride Lots which have hourly service. Buses will serve the Green Bay Lot every hour at 20 minutes past and the Brown Deer Lot will be served hourly at 30 minutes past the hour. Round-trip fares are $6 for adults (ages 12 - 64), $3 for children (ages 7-11), seniors (65 & over) and disabled persons with proper I.D. Don't forget daily service is available via regular Milwaukee County Transit System routes 18, 67, and 76. Regular bus fares apply.
  From a story on WISN-TV:MILWAUKEE -- Wisconsin State Fair has a new creation on a stick, but it's not something fair goers can eat. It's called "energy on a stick."Solar panels have been installed on top of the Wisconsin Products Pavilion, as well as a single stick on Grandstand Avenue.The stick can produce 34,000 kilowatts of electricity a year."That's really the future we're working toward," said Niels Woleter, Solar Electric Program Manager for Focus on Energy. "Part of that future is preparing everyone, by showing them yes, here it is. This is what it looks like. It does work in Wisconsin. Today might be a cloudy day, but its still generating power."State Fair officials said in 1 year the panels will generate enough power to make cream puffs for 3 years, as well as run the sky gliders for 12 years.