CWLP's Smart Energy Forum last night was well received and got good media coverage. WICS TV20 was there, and WAND 17 has a short version of their report in an online video.
I was a little worried that people might get bored during the main presentation about the regional electric grid and some of the challenges and benefits of incorporating renewable energy like wind and solar into the system. But the audience was engaged and asked many questions.
One benefit of solar power is that its peak generating time coincides with peak use times on hot summer afternoons. While wind generators provide more power during the evening and windy seasons when power demand is lower, it also provides a good compliment to solar since they operate best under different conditions. Wind turbines will work in Springfield but we aren't in an optimal location. I plan to participate in the wind energy buy-in program when it's available but ideally I'd like to see Springfield compliment that with more locally generated solar as well.
We also got an update on the energy efficiency study and the clean energy buy-in program that's scheduled to be introduced later this year.
For more information you can contact the CWLP Energy Services office or come to the next meeting May 15.