The first portion of the meeting focused on existing efficiency programs including a limited time rebate for efficient appliances. The new project manager for water conservation programs was present as well.
Two renewable energy programs are being developed. One would add incentives for distributed renewable generation such as rooftop solar panels. CWLP would add to existing state and federal incentives to lower the up-front costs.
Distributed solar would help develop more clean energy locally so that we don't have to rely on buying wind power from other states. One benefit of distributed generation is that it uses power more efficiently because it doesn't require transporting energy across long distances. Also, solar will produce the most energy on long, hot summer days when energy demand is high. That's why even the coal plant engineers like it better than wind power that peaks at night.
The next program would provide rate incentives and develop infrastructure for plug-in hybrid and electric cars. This is an economic development opportunity if we use it to attract businesses with plug-in hybrid fleet vehicles. There aren't many on the road yet, but it's a chance for Springfield to jump ahead of other cities.
Besides facilitating vehicles that pollute less it could also promote the market for wind power. One drawback to wind is that it often produces the most output at night when power demands are lower. So, when does it make sense to power up a plug-in vehicle that drives around all day? Oh yeah! Overnight when utilities are trying to figure how to use all that extra wind!
That makes it a good plan for tree-huggers like me who want more wind farms and are concerned about how much extra power demand electric cars will create. It also makes sense to the utility engineers who want to balance out demands on their energy load.
Both programs are in the development stage so contact the Energy Services Office for more details. All of this will need approval by the Springfield city council. Since there's a city council election happening right now this would be a good time to ask candidates where they stand on developing Springfield's clean energy future.