Sunday, November 08, 2009

LWV Hosts Energy Expert Panel Nov. 9

In the second of its energy study meetings this Fall, the League of Women Voters of Berea and Madison County (LWV) will host three energy experts for a panel discussion on Kentucky's energy policy future. The meeting will be on Monday, November 9 at 7 PM, at the Berea branch of the Madison County public library.

Andy McDonald of the Kentucky Solar Partnership, will speak on the current opportunities and future of solar energy to generate electricity on small and large-scales in our state. Elizabeth Graves, with the Energy Efficient Enterprises project of the Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED) will address the ways in which businesses are grasping opportunities to save money through energy efficiency. Robert Ukeiley, a public interest attorney and clean air expert, will discuss the potential for wind energy in our state.

"We want the panelists to help us understand the current reality of these sources of energy savings and generation, and what the barriers are to implementing clean energy programs in Kentucky," said Jeanne Nakazawa, a LWV Board chair and coordinator of the LWV energy study.

The LWV of Kentucky is conducting a statewide energy study in 2009 focused specifically on policy directives for energy efficiency and renewable energy. "We want their input on how best Kentucky can achieve these energy goals, so we can take informed action in the upcoming legislative session," Nakazawa said.