NW CERT Meeting
June 19, 2009, 10 am – 1 pm
Northern Municipal Power Agency Offices
123 2nd St West (parking available in the municipal lot across street to west of building)
Thief River Falls, MN
At this event, experts will discuss the new AURI Renewable Energy Template. “This document contains instructions and data for estimating the renewable energy potential and energy demand for a county or region. The primary intent of the template is to provide a “how to” manual for inventorying biomass resources and determining local and/or regional markets for renewable energy.
This tool can be used as a first step for identifying renewable energy opportunities and assisting with developing a preliminary feasibility assessment for identified renewable energy ventures”.
Find background information on the AURI Template HERE
Register for the event HERE
10AM – Introductions
10:10AM – Background: Template for Estimating County Level Energy Use and Renewable Energy Potential
- Randy Hilliard from AURI will discuss: Why was this template needed and how AURI hopes it will be used
- Jim Steenerson from Northwest Minnesota Foundation and NW CERT Steering Committee member will discuss: Why CERTs thought it was important to ensure implementation
- Find background information on the AURI Template HERE
10:20AM – Cecil Massey from 6 Solutions Inc will give an overview of the template
- Key features
- How it works and Assumptions
- What it will and will not do
- What’s a logical next step after using this screening tool?
10:50AM – A panel discussion will discuss using the template. Guests include: Cam Fanfulik, Northwest Regional Development Commission; Ryan Zemek, Headwaters Regional Development Commission; Greg Wagner and Rena Stigen, West Central Initiative Foundation
- How is it working thus far?
- Successes, hiccups, & lessons learned from the process
- Key findings, surprises and interesting tidbits within counties
- Emerging opportunities within counties
- Next Steps
Questions for Large Group Discussion: how does this link with emerging federal funding opportunities, implications for the region, etc.?
11:45AM – Grab a lunch from Hugo’s Deli
12:25PM – Summary of Energy Efficiency Program Development Efforts – Darryl Tveitbakk and Dalene Monsebroten, Northern Municipal Power Agency
- New programs being launched
- Why were these programs selected?
- Anticipated savings and benefits
- Potential for adoption among members (and beyond)
Question for Large Group Discussion: how could CERTs help encourage broader adoption of energy efficiency options and strategies?
1:00PM – Adjourn
