Sauk, Rock, and Elkhorn utilities join Focus on Energy

Wednesday, July 01, 2009

Focus on Energy, Wisconsin's energy efficiency and renewable energy initiative, announced today [July 1] that Sauk City Utilities, Rock Energy Cooperative, and Elkhorn Light & Water became a program member beginning July 1, 2009.

Utility participation allows utility customers to take advantage of Focus on Energy's Business, Residential and Renewable Energy offerings under the Focus on Energy umbrella. The benefits of participating include:

+ Business Programs that help manufacturers, commercial businesses, farmers, schools and local governments reduce operating costs, increase their bottom line and improve productivity and employee and customer comfort. The programs offer technical expertise, training and financial incentives to help implement innovative energy management projects.
+ Wisconsin ENERGY STAR® Homes, Home Performance with ENERGY STAR and Apartment & Condo Efficiency Services Programs that encompass new and existing homes, multi-family construction and remodeling projects for all types of residential dwellings. These programs help homeowners and landlords integrate energy improvements into their remodeling projects, as well as deliver newly-built homes, apartments and condominiums that are comfortable, safe, durable and energy efficient.
+ Lighting and appliance programs that increase the availability of ENERGY STAR qualified products ranging from compact fluorescent light bulbs to heating and cooling equipment. These efforts deliver lower energy bills for residents and businesses and increased sales for retailers and contractors.
+ Renewable Energy Programs that help residents and businesses harness energy from sunlight, wind and organic materials.
+ Targeted Home Performance that reduces energy bills while increasing comfort and safety for income-qualified participants.

A sustainable energy checklist for green communities

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

From a brief guide published by Focus on Energy:

Cities and towns across Wisconsin are seeking ways to address concerns about global climate change while improving the environment and their local quality of life.

Environmentally-friendly or “green” options for communities have long included programs to encourage recycling and the purchase of recycled products, improving public transportation and developing new zoning ordinances that reduce urban sprawl.

Recently, many communities have begun to seek strategies for achieving carbon reduction goals as a way of becoming greener. Because fossil energy use is the primary source of carbon emissions, communities are turning to energy efficiency and
renewable energy to make their energy production and use more sustainable.

The guide answers the following questions:
WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE ENERGY?
HOW DOES SUSTAINABLE ENERGY PLANNING FIT
INTO OTHER GREEN COMMUNITY GOALS?
HOW DO COMMUNITIES GET STARTED?
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY OPPORTUNITIES AND RESOURCES

Monthly meeting, July 2

Monday, June 29, 2009

The Madison Peak Oil Group will meet for one hour beginning at noon on July 2 in the lower level conference room at 222 S. Hamilton St.

We have plenty to discuss:

+ Madison bus station and related issues, including long range transportation planning
+ Outreach events
Alternative Vehicle Festival (formerly Hybridfest)
Willy Street Fair
Ride the Drive
+ DOT’s 2030 planning
+ Anything else that comes to mind

Everyone is welcome to the one-hour brown-bag meeting.

Rural and Urban Economic Revitalization Workshops, July 6-7, MATC

Friday, June 26, 2009

From a news release posted on Business Wire:

The International Institute for Ecological Agriculture (IIEA) announced today that it is working with the Wisconsin Farmers Union and the Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence along with agencies and groups across the region to present its next series of educational workshop programs. The two-day Intensive workshops, (June 27 and 28 in Osseo, WI and July 6 and 7 in Madison, WI) promote rural and urban economic revitalization and non-exportable job creation through the optimized production of food and fuel source crops and related by-products.

The workshops will be led by David Blume, renowned Permaculture and Biofuels expert and author of Alcohol Can Be A Gas. Mr. Blume, is the recent author recipient of the American Corn Growers Association’s Truth in Agricultural Journalism award, and will teach attendees how they can:

•Earn federal and state renewable energy tax incentives that can offset as much as 80% of the startup costs for a small-scale alcohol fuel business.
•Beat the fuel and food price increases predicted for 2009.
•Produce clean alcohol fuel for less than a dollar per gallon from waste, toxic and spoiled food, common weeds, as well as high-return crops.

“Because of our current economic climate, farmers everywhere are struggling,” said Sue Beitlich, President of the Wisconsin Farmers Union. “At WFU we are working diligently to help provide our members and community with the knowledge and means to improve our local and regional economic outlook. David Blume’s workshop provides proven systems based on agriculture science that will enhance and optimize food and fuel source crop production. That knowledge can help Wisconsin farmers build new businesses and become leaders in the sustainable energy movement.”

The two day workshops will be held . . . Monday and Tuesday July 6 and 7 at the Madison Area Technical College, (Truax Campus) in Madison WI. The open-to-the-public programs present an ideal launch pad for green business entrepreneurs, activists, farmers, and people everywhere who are interested in developing their own energy independence and taking control of their economic future. For more information on the workshop program and schedule please visit http://www.alcoholcanbeagas.com/store/alcohol_workshops

Getting a (plug-in) charge in Madison

Thursday, June 25, 2009

From a story by Bob Hague on the Wisconsin Radio Network:

Drivers of plug in electric vehicles will soon be able to charge up on the streets of Wisconsin's capital city. Madison Gas and Electric is the first utility in the nation to make electric vehicle charging stations publicly available, with the purchase of six such stations to be installed around the city, according to MG&E's Steve Krause.

"One of the disadvantages (to electric vehicles) now is when you don't have a public charging station, is you have to either charge the car at your home, or you have to charge it a prearranged location," said Krause. "People that want to use electric cars all day long, either in town or even town to town, need a place to refuel that vehicle, and these charging stations will do that. We also have an additional bonus. All of the power that will be used to power these cars will come from renewable sources, and it will be primarily wind energy."

This is a demonstration project and for now, electric vehicle drivers won't be charged for the juice. MG&E's Don Peterson said the utility sees this as a business opportunity eventually, so they'll be collecting data. For example, how many electric vehicles are out there in the Madison area? "We really don't know how many electric vehicles are out there," said Peterson. "The estimates go to anywhere from 25 to 75 vehicles." That's a number that could be increasing fairly rapidly: Peterson noted that a Madison area car dealership is already doing a brisk trade, converting Toyota Prius hybrids into all electric plug ins.

"We see this is as a business opportunity, but right now each charging station, installed, is costing somewhere between $5,000 and $10,000," said Peterson. "We're exploring avenues for grants and additional research money, but right now this is an MG&E funded program."

Revitalizing Ourselves Through Renewable Energy

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

From a presentation by RENEW's Michael Vickerman (above) at the Energy Fair of the Midwest Renewable Energy Association:

Energy Policy Must Recognize Energy Realities
+ Supplies of liquid fuels peaked in 2008
+ Capital is disappearing before our very eyes
+ Energy and food are the original currencies
+ The shift from stores to flows is inevitable
+ Current economy is highly energy-intensive
+ Energy return on energy invested (EROEI) must inform decision-making
+ We can’t afford to prop up existing energy sinks or engage in wealth-draining military adventures

Three paths to choose
+ Business as usual
+ Clean green technology
+ Curtailment and community

A Short Guide to Setting Up a City-Scale Retrofit Program

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

From an introduction to a guide just released by the Center on Wisconsin Strategy and Green for All:

Green For All and COWS have just released A Short Guide to Setting Up a City-Scale Retrofit Program. This guide provides a model for designing and implementing energy efficiency retrofitting programs on a citywide scale, with a goal of making these retrofits available to more households and providing good, entry-level jobs with career pathways that are accessible to low-income communities and communities of color.

Energy efficiency retrofits of our homes, schools, and workplaces are the first steps to building an inclusive clean energy economy by addressing climate change, putting people in careers, and reducing working families' energy bills. Despite their overwhelming economic and environmental benefits, current retrofitting programs have limited capacity and limited scope. Many are available only to income-eligible individuals, or to those with the money up-front to do the work. Furthermore, many current retrofitting programs only create low-wage, short-term jobs, rather than providing pathways into sustainable careers in construction and green building.

Clearly, a new model is needed. This guide is a tool for local organizations, business leaders, entrepreneurs, elected officials, and others in cities across the country to use to promote energy efficiency in their communities. It outlines all of the important aspects of such a program, including policies, labor standards, community coalitions, and long-term funding options.

Don’t let bus station closure set back Madison

Monday, June 22, 2009

From a letter to the editor David Knuti, Madison Peak Oil Group, and Susan De Vos, Madison Area Bus Advocates:

The Badger Bus Company plans to close its intercity bus terminal at West Washington and Bedford, which is likely to clog city streets, discomfort bus passengers and reduce total ridership when it needs to be sharply increased. In addition, the best site for a future central transit hub should not be permanently lost. When the issue comes up at its June 15 meeting, the City Planning Commission should withhold approval of the redevelopment plan until viable plans for intercity bus service have been worked out.

No plans have been offered for future service other than pile the rest of Madison’s intercity bus activity onto the curb at Langdon Street and have the Union service the passengers. UW has said it will not cooperate with this development, and the added bus traffic is likely create a hopeless pile-up in an already crowded location. But a worse alternative would be for bus service to be completely dispersed to scattered street corners and peripheral locations.

It is time for the Mayor and Council to lead a joint search for solutions involving all the companies--Van Galder, Greyhound and Badger. To make this work, the city should dust off its traffic control ordinances, planning capability, and financial resources. Ultimately, an effort should be made to refocus bus service back to the station, and consider public support for its operation and improvement—with or without public acquisition.

At this time, Badger is rushing to build another downtown commercial-residential development when space is empty and projects are stalled all around them. In the meantime, a Regional Transportation Authority is being created, high-speed rail is coming to town, the state is considering more intercity bus routes, and commuter rapid transit is in planning—all with expanding Federal support. The current Bus Station is the best point for all these developments to converge in a multi-modal center. Time is needed to seriously deal with these issues.

Give your opinion on State of Wisconsin coal plant in Waupun, June 23

Thursday, June 18, 2009

From the Sierra Club:

Did you know...
...that the State of Wisconsin owns and operates 15 coal-fired plants?
...that our tax dollars are shipped to Appalachia to buy dirty coal from mountain-top removal mines?
...that our institutions of higher education and health spew soot, smog, mercury, and global warming pollution?

Governor Doyle took the first step by committing to get UW-Madison and Capitol Heat and Power off of coal, a move that will cut the state's coal use by more than 60%. We can finish the job and transform the 13 remaining state-owned plants.

Tuesday, the State wants to know what we think about proposed options for the coal plant at Waupun Correctional Facility. Please join us in asking the State of Wisconsin to completely kick the dirty coal habit, stop importing coal from the mountains of Appalachia, and fuel our facilities with cleaner, safer, cheaper sources of energy.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009 6:00 to 8:30 pm
Waupun Utilities
817 S. Madison Street, Waupun

Sierra Club will help provide transportation from Madison. Contact Jennifer Feyerherm at jennifer.feyerherm@sierraclub.org or 257-4994 if you would like more information.

The Governor's Task Force on Global Warming reccomended that state government lead the way in doing our fair share to reduce global warming pollution. With your help, we can move our state government beyond coal and bring cleaner, safer energy solutions home to Wisconsin.

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice from the Wisconsin Department of Administration



Notice of Town Hall Meeting

On Draft Study of the State-Owned Heating Plant at the Waupun Correctional Institution

Tuesday, June 23, 2009
6:00 to 8:30 pm
Waupun Utilities
817 S. Madison Street
Waupun

The public is invited to learn more and provide input on a draft comprehensive feasibility study that looks at how to meet the Waupun Correctional Institution’s energy needs.

The Wisconsin Department of Administration and the Wisconsin Department of Corrections invite citizens to a Town Hall Meeting to learn more about a study that analyzes alternatives to ways the state generates electricity and heat at the Waupun Correctional Institution. There will also be an opportunity for citizens to comment on the draft report from the study.

The Town Hall Meeting will include opportunities for one-on-one discussions with experts, displays on the findings in the draft report and a forum for comments. The agenda follows:

6:00 Self-guided review of displays, discussion with experts
6:30 Information Presentation
6:45 Open Forum
8:00 Revisit displays and discussions
8:15 Wrap-up

The study is being conducted as part of an agreement reached in November, 2007 between the Department of Administration and the Sierra Club to complete feasibility studies on the cost-effectiveness and reliability of different energy-generation alternatives at several state-owned heating plants, including the Waupun Correctional Central Heating Plant.

Built in 1949, The Waupun Correctional Central Heating Plant provides heat, electricity and emergency power for the Waupun and Dodge Correctional Institutions. The plant also provides well, tower and a potable water supply for these correctional institutions and three smaller state facilities in the area. Energy at the plant is currently generated with three coal-fired boilers built in 1949 and one natural gas boiler built in 1970.

A copy of the draft report will be posted online before the meeting at: http://www.doa.state.wi.us/section.asp?linkid=146&locid=4.

The public is welcome to offer feedback on the study at the town hall meeting, or by sending an email to StateHeatingPlantComments@wisconsin.gov by June 30, 2009. For more information about the town hall meeting, please contact Linda Barth with the Department of Administration at 608-266-7362, or John Dipko with the Department of Corrections 608-240-5060.

Peak Oil Group signs onto letter of support for regional transit authority

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

From a letter to state senators from a coaliton of organizations, including the Madison Peak Oil Group, in support of legislation authorizing creation of regional transportation authorities:

June 17, 2009

To the members of the Wisconsin Senate:

We write to you in strong support of regional transportation authority (RTA) enabling legislation. We urge the state senate to keep the creation of RTAs moving forward in the state budget, and expand the RTA opportunity to other communities in Wisconsin.

Research shows that access to transportation is a major priority for business owners and commuters because it leads to economic growth while also providing options for getting around. New businesses will locate in Wisconsin cities where they know they will have access to large labor pools, and where travel connections with other large economic centers are quick, easy and help them grow their operations. And students graduating from Wisconsin schools will stay here to take advantage of new jobs, vibrant communities, and convenient transportation.

One critical step necessary in the short term for Wisconsin to reap these economic benefits is the creation of regional transit authorities. Under Wisconsin’s current, antiquated rules, cities that provide transit must contract with one another and squeeze transit funding out of their general revenues, mainly from property taxes.

The resulting unstable, underfunded transit cannot compete for federal construction dollars, and cannot provide sustainable service to our communities. RTAs will put Wisconsin on a more level playing field with other states, and enable regions to plan and sustain a regional transportation network.

Panel approves plan to remake Badger Bus terminal

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

From an article by Mike Ivey in The Capital Times:

A proposal to redevelop the Badger Bus terminal site at the corner of West Washington Avenue and Bedford Street has moved forward, despite pleas from mass transit backers.

The Madison Plan Commission Monday night approved plans for 82 luxury apartments units and 12,000 square feet of retail space in three buildings in the Bassett neighborhood.

The development would force closing of the bus terminal at 2 S. Bedford St., but that issue fell outside the review of the commission.

"I don't like to see the bus station going away and that's not to say it's not an important matter," said commission member Tim Gruber.

Still, a half-dozen transit backers spoke against the project. In addition to regular Badger Bus service between Madison and Milwaukee, the station also serves 10 Greyhound trips daily.

"This is going to make bus travel that much more difficult, especially for people without cars," said Barbara Smith.

Free solar service available from City of Madison

Monday, June 15, 2009

From an e-mail sent by Jeanne Hoffman, sustainability coordinator for the City of Madison:

If you want to know if a solar system would work for you, you can use the FREE service of the solar agent. The agent was hired by the City of Madison to evaluate the solar options on your property. He also will, if you wish, help you find a contractor.

All residents, businesses and non-profit organization with property in the City of Madison are eligible for this FREE service.

For assistance from the Solar Agent please contact (608) 243-0586 or email solar@cityofmadison.com.

Plan commission set to vote on Badger Bus depot demolition

Saturday, June 13, 2009

An e-mail from Barbara Smith:

Plan Commission
Public Hearing - 6pm
Monday, June 15th
Madison Municipal Building, Room 201

TOPIC: Badger Bus Depot

Are you concerned about the plans to demolish the Badger Bus Depot without
a workable alternative for inter-city bus service?

The city's Plan Commission will review and vote on the Badger Bus
redevelopment plan on Monday, June 15th. The rezoning of 2 S. Bedford St.
(Badger Bus Depot) is item #8.

The meeting is at 5:30pm in the Madison Municipal Building, Room 201. The
meeting includes a PUBLIC HEARING at 6pm.

Please consider sending an e-mail to Plan Commission members with your thoughts, or showing up at the public hearing Monday with a prepared statement (I think 3 or 5 minutes per person is allowed).

The Plan Commission needs to hear about the public's concern for the lack of transit planning with this redevelopment plan. If the Plan Commission approves the demolition, the City Council votes 7/7 and that's final, is what I understand.

Here are the Plan Commission members:

COMMON COUNCIL MEMBER - 1
Michael Schumacher
district18@cityofmadison.com

COMMON COUNCIL MEMBER - 2
Lauren Cnare
district3@cityofmadison.com

COMMON COUNCIL MEMBER - 3
Julia S. Kerr
district13@cityofmadison.com

MAYOR OR DESIGNEE
Nancy E. Fey

ADULT CITY RESIDENT - 1
Eric W. Sundquist
erics@cows.org

ADULT CITY RESIDENT - 2
Judy K. Olson
jolson@operationfreshstart.org

ADULT CITY RESIDENT - 3
James C. Boll
jboll@mge.com

ADULT CITY RESIDENT - 4
Judith A. Bowser
jabowser@facstaff.wisc.edu

ADULT CITY RESIDENT - 5
Michael A. Basford
mabasford@charter.net

FIRST ALTERNATE *
Michael G. Heifetz
michael.heifetz@deancare.com

SECOND ALTERNATE *
Timothy Gruber

MAD METRO SCHL DST SUPT OR DES *
Douglas J. Pearson
dpearson@madison.k12.wi.us

No Fear Dentistry taps sun for hot water and electricity

Thursday, June 11, 2009

From a news release issued by Focus on Energy:

Madison No Fear Dentistry, a newly constructed dental office, [hosted] an open house on June 5, 2009 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The event celebrates the facility’s grand opening as well as the completion of its new solar electric and solar hot water systems. The office is located at 344 S. Yellowstone Dr. in Madison, Wis.

The renewable energy systems were completed with technical assistance and more than $12,000 in financial incentives from Focus on Energy, Wisconsin’s energy efficiency and renewable energy initiative. Because of Focus’ assistance, Dr. David Ducommun, owner of Madison No Fear Dentistry, will be able to cut the facility’s natural gas and electricity consumption — shielding him from increases in energy costs and helping him gain energy independence.

“David is a great example of what other Wisconsin business owners can do to cut their energy costs, while helping the environment,” said Eric Callisto, Public Service Commission Chairperson. “His efforts can be emulated by so many, as Focus on Energy has a network of renewable energy experts and financial incentives readily available for thousands of eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses.”

H&H Solar Services, a Madison, Wis., based company, installed both the solar electric and solar hot water systems. The 5.4 kilowatt (kW) solar electric system consists of 30 panels on the roof of Madison No Fear Dentistry. The solar hot water system, which consists 78 square feet of collectors on the roof, is expected to offset 164 therms per year.

Increasing wind power would improve economy

From a letter to the editor of The Capital Times by Scott Ribin:

Dear Editor: I'm writing in regard to recent letters about wind energy in Wisconsin. In my opinion, one of the best reasons to use more wind energy is that it will strengthen our economy.

First, using wind power will allow us to stop importing fossil fuels from out-of-state sources, which will lead to the creation of thousands of in-state middle-class manufacturing jobs, an area hit hard by the recent recession.

Second, constructing wind farms is also more cost-effective than building new coal or nuclear power plants because they have a greater direct impact on the local economy.

Third, northeastern Wisconsin is one of the best areas in the country to construct and place turbines because of its wind strength and speeds. This area already has a well-developed manufacturing base that is eager to thrive under a renewable revolution.

Wind power also will lower health care spending. Fossil fuel use is directly related to rising asthma and lung cancer prevalence rates. This especially occurs in lower-income families without insurance, further increasing health care costs.

Take the bus from Madison to the Energy Fair, Custer, WI

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Don’t Miss the 20th Anniversary Energy Fair, June 19-21, 2009

The Midwest Renewable Energy Association will celebrate its 20th Anniversary Energy Fair on June 19-21, 2009. Next weekend, the MREA’s Energy Fair transforms central Wisconsin into the global hot spot for renewable energy education, with over 20,000 fair attendees each year. The Fair is the nation’s largest and longest running energy education event. The Energy Fair is held in Custer, WI just seven miles east of Stevens Point.

Take the Bus from Madison! Sponsored by Madison Gas and Electric
The MREA offers mass transit transportation from Madison to The Energy Fair. Help us to reduce the carbon footprint, and receive a discount on your entrance ticket. Coffee and breakfast items from the Willy Street Co-op will be served on the bus each morning to help jump start your day! Round trip ticket is $20. Depart from The Northside Town Center- Sherman Plaza at Sherman Ave. and Northport Dr. at 7 am each morning. Free Parking in the middle of the front lot. The bus will leave the Fair at 7pm on Friday and Saturday and 5pm on Sunday. Ride the bus and get $5 off admission to the Fair.

Get your bus ticket by Friday, June 12!
Sign up online at: http://www.the-mrea.org/fair_registration.php

Features of the 2009 Energy Fair
* Over 280 exhibitors - featuring sustainable living and energy products
* Over 200 workshops - from introductory level to hands-on education
* Clean Energy Car Show - featuring demonstration vehicles and workshops, with live car conversions
* Green Home Pavilion –focused on building and remodeling in a sustainable way, with hands-on demonstration walls
* Sustainable Tables – learn how to bring sustainability to your dinner table with workshops, farmers market, and chef demonstrations
* Keynotes – including Alan Weisman, author of The World Without Us
* Music – including national recording artist Michelle Shocked!

More information about the Fair
Contact the Midwest Renewable Energy Association
715-592-6595 or online at http://www.the-mrea.org

Hope to see you at the Fair!

WORT to discuss Badger Bus and transit issues, noon, Friday, June 12

Tuesday, June 09, 2009

Please plan to listen and call in to Friday's "A Public Affair" radio show
on WORT. The Badger Bus Terminal and transit in general are the topics!

Friday, June 12th
12 NOON to 1pm
WORT FM 89.9

"A Public Affair"
Host: Diane Farsetta
Guests include Robbie Webber and others.

If you have to miss the show Friday, you can listen later to the on-line archive at www.wort-fm.org and choose "Archive" on the right.

Hope you can join the conversation Friday at noon!

Traffic volume plan not anti-developer

Monday, June 08, 2009

From a commentary in The Capital Times by Eric Sundquist, a member of the city's Plan Commission and Long Range Transportation Planning Committee:

Madison's City Council will soon review a proposal aimed at providing efficient transportation access in the city. The proposal would save money for the city, which spends millions of property tax dollars on roads. It would reduce pollution and protect productive farmland. And it would provide better access to work and other destinations for those who cannot or choose not to drive.

The resolution would judge our success in this effort by measuring traffic volumes, setting a target of 25 percent fewer vehicle-miles on city streets by 2020, after accounting for population growth. This goal would return us to the same levels of driving that existed in the 1980s. . . .

The resolution would not force anyone to stop driving. Rather, it would encourage development and infrastructure that lets people and businesses make fewer and shorter car trips, and would make walking, biking and transit more feasible for those who choose those modes.

A Capital Times story of June 3 paints the resolution as anti-developer. This is not the case. Zoning applications today are judged on "public health, safety, morals and general welfare," a general standard that can vary depending on who happens to complain about a project.

In contrast, the traffic resolution would make clear the public interest in transportation efficiency. Developers would know better how to design and present projects that can get approved -- by ensuring good and varied access between uses.

Some have worried that because some traffic comes from the suburbs, city policy is irrelevant. This problem is overstated because Madison has two-thirds of the population of the regional transportation planning area, most trips people make are local, and Madison's built environment affects travel even for those coming from other localities.

Falk Announces “Green Energy Dane Plan"

Thursday, June 04, 2009

From an news release issued by Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk:

Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced today the county has compiled a list of projects that will both save taxpayer dollars and generate new sources of revenue to help fund vital county human services. The work will be paid for through a $2.26 million Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Dane County received under the federal stimulus legislation. . . .

Headlining the “Green Energy Dane Plan,” are a significant number of projects to make more than 50-year-old county facilities much more energy efficient and less costly to operate. These efforts include changing lighting and improving heating and cooling systems. The plan also calls for the installation of solar-photovoltaic systems (solar panels) at county facilities that will convert solar energy into electricity Dane County will sell to local utilities.

The “Green Energy Dane Plan” also includes using approximately $350,000 of the grant for a feasibility study to explore potential benefits of a facility to convert food waste into energy. The study will look at taking food waste from commercial sources and turning it into energy rich bio-gas. Early estimates indicate this could generate $2 to $4-million a year in revenue for the county.

“We’re converting trash at our landfill into millions in cash each year for taxpayers and moving forward with work to make money and energy from manure, so exploring the possible benefits of collecting all the waste food from our hospitals and restaurants just makes great economic and environmental sense,” Falk said.

Falk noted the county recently signed a ten-year contract with MG&E in which the utility pays the county $3-million each year for electricity generated at the landfill. This effort nets enough electricity to power 4,000 homes.

Madison wants to cut auto traffic 25 percent by 2020

From an article by Mike Ivey in The Capital Times:

The city of Madison is poised to add another hoop for developers to jump through when considering new projects: how many car trips will be generated.

A resolution working its way through City Hall sets a goal of reducing the total amount of vehicle miles traveled here 25 percent by 2020. That could make it harder to build homes, offices or stores on the urban fringe where cars are the sole means of transportation.

But supporters say reducing automobile dependency will bring economic, social and environmental benefits to the city. They also contend it won't tie the hands of the private sector or drive investment out of town.

"These are goals, just one more thing to consider when making decisions," east side Ald. Satya Rhodes-Conway told the Madison Plan Commission at its meeting this week. "It doesn't require the council or Plan Commission to do anything other than pay attention."

Approved by the Plan Commission on a 7-1 vote, the resolution says automobiles are "a major contributor to environmental degradation, including air emissions that increase levels of ozone, particulates, greenhouse gases, stormwater runoff, heat island effects, habitat and agricultural land destruction."

It further states that transportation inefficiency is a "major contributor to social inequity," making it harder for the poor or disabled to get to work or meet other daily needs.

The resolution calls for coordinating transportation and land-use planning on a citywide scale, noting that mixed-use development within individual neighborhoods alone won't make much difference

Preserve Our Climate meeting, June 8, Madison Public Library

Our next Preserve Our Climate meeting will be on Monday, June 8th at the Madison Public Library. The regular meeting will start at 6PM, but we will also start the discussion at 5:30 as some people need to leave early. Please feel welcome to come for some or all of the meeting, depending on your convenience.

One of our agenda items will be discussion regarding the climate legislation currently before Congress. Please send other agenda topics you would like to discuss. We'll send out an agenda soon.

Best wishes,
Susan and Sierra

The latest peak oil projection: a stunning difference

Wednesday, June 03, 2009

From a post by John Kingston, Platts, on EnergyBulletin.net:

A session with a leading Peak Oil supporter can always be a sobering experience. That was certainly the case May 28 at the "New Challenges for Crude Oil" conference in Geneva, where the president of main international Peak Oil group spoke.

Swedish professor Kjell Aleklett is actually a physics professor at Uppsale Universit, not a geology professor. But he is also the president of the Association for the Study of Peak Oil, and he was chair of the Platts' conference.

He is about to present a paper for peer review and inclusion in the academic magazine Energy Policy. That paper will take issue with the International Energy Agency projections on oil supply out to 2030, by an enormous factor.

The difference between the IEA and Aleklett's work is fairly straightforward. Aleklett adopts what he calls a "parameter" in determing the rate of depletion in fields that have yet to be developed or fields yet to be discovered, two key elements in the IEA's projections.

The gap between his work and that of the IEA is huge. IEA projections of liquids supply see total output of 101.5 million b/d by 2030. Aleklett's research sees it at a little more than 75 million b/d.

There are numerous areas where Aleklett said his research agreed with the IEA, including the projected rate of decline of existing fields. But beyond that, what Aleklett says are the different approaches toward depletion rates creates enormous differences in projections out to 2030. Output in fields to be developed would be 22.5 million b/d in the IEA forecast; it's 13.6 in Aleklett's. The difference in fields yet to be discovered is 19.2 million b/d vs. 8.7 million b/d.

Aleklett, like other Peak Oil proponents, also criticized the IEA practice of counting all barrels of NGLs equally with a barrel of crude, even though the BTU content is not equal.

Students to rally for high speed rail

Friday, May 22, 2009

From a news release issued by WISPIRG:

While many students head home, start their summer jobs, or begin long vacations, some students in the WISPIRG Student Chapters are hitting the road in support of high speed rail. Forty students will travel next week from Green Bay to Milwaukee to Madison to La Crosse over four days to show support for Wisconsin’s proposed high speed rail route.

President Obama seeks to connect our cities in “priority corridors” (including the Chicago-Milwaukee-Madison-Twin Cities route) with high speed rail. Congress this year passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which will spend $8 billion for high speed rail on projects that have not yet been determined. Governor Doyle and WISDOT Secretary Busalacchi are advocating to bring high speed rail to Wisconsin; they are seeking Recovery funds to connect Madison and Milwaukee with intercity rail as part of the Midwest Regional Rail Initiative, a nine-state project that would connect over 100 Midwestern cities and link the region’s major economic centers. Doing so will give us more transportation choices, alternatives to lengthy airport delays, and reduced dependence on oil, while helping to rebuild our economy. Wisconsin would especially benefit because it is perfectly situated in the corridor connecting Chicago to the Twin Cities.

Enthusiasm for the project among students and other young people is infectious. At most stops students are planning a short bike route through each town to the location of the media event. WISPIRG students will wear matching t-shirts and carry a giant map of the proposed train route. Events will also include a human-powered train with many people, much like a Chinese dragon costume.

Come join us to show support for bringing high speed rail to Wisconsin!

Monday, May 25
10am Green Bay - National Railroad Museum
1pm Appleton - Houdini Plaza, downtown Appleton
3pm Oshkosh - Opera House Square

Tuesday, May 26
10am Milwaukee - Downtown Transit Center
1pm Brookfield - Town Hall
3pm Oconomowoc - Maxims, 115 E. Collins St.

Wednesday, May 27
10am Madison - State Capitol
3pm Portage - TBD

Thursday, May 28
10am Wisconsin Dells - TBD
3pm La Crosse - The Train Station, 601 St. Andrews

Keynote speakers set for Energy Fair, June 19-21

Thursday, May 21, 2009

From details of the Energy Fair, sponsored by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association, in Custer, Wisconsin:

Friday, June 19 at 1 pm
Antonia Juhasz
Antonia Juhasz is an author and political activist. She was the author of The Bush Agenda: Invading the World One Economy at a Time in 2006, Alternatives to Economic Globalization for which she received the 2004 Project Censored award. In 2008, she published The Tyranny of Oil.

Saturday, June 20 at 1 pm
Alan Weisman
Alan Weisman spoke at the 10th Anniversary Energy Fair, and we’re happy to have him join us another ten years later to celebrate our progress and help us look forward to another 20 years.

Alan Weisman is an author and journalist whose reports from around the world have appeared in Harper's, The New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic Monthly, The Los Angeles Times Magazine, Orion, Wilson Quarterly, Vanity Fair, Mother Jones, Discover, and more.

His most recent book, The World Without Us, (a staff favorite) is a bestseller, and was named the Best Nonfiction Book of 2007 by both Time Magazine and Entertainment Weekly.

Sunday, June 21 at 1 pm
Wendy Williams
Wendy Williams, an is the author of Cape Wind: Money, Celebrity, Class, Politics, and the Battle for Our Energy Future on Nantucket Sound. The Wall Street Journal called Cape Wind "a ripe subject, populated with the sort of people who would be among the first to count themselves as friends of the Earth but the last to accept an environmentally friendly energy source if it meant the slightest cloud on their ocean views."

Williams has written for many major publications, including Scientific American, The Christian Science Monitor, The Boston Globe, The Providence Journal and The Baltimore Sun. She has been journalist-in-residence at Duke University and at the Hasting Center. The author of several books, she lives on Cape Cod.

Automakers, Obama announce mileage, pollution plan

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

From an Associated Press article by Ken Thomas, published in The Capital Times:

WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama's new fuel and emission standards for cars and trucks will save billions of barrels of oil but are expected to cost consumers an extra $1,300 per vehicle by the time the plan is complete in 2016.

Obama on Tuesday planned to announce the first-ever national emissions limits for vehicles, as well as require an overall or industry average fuel efficiency standard at 35.5 miles per gallon.

Carol Browner, the White House energy and climate director, publicly confirmed the new initiative in appearances on morning network news shows, calling it a "truly historic" occasion and saying tougher standards are "long overdue."

The plan also would effectively end a feud between automakers and statehouses over emission standards — with the states coming out on top but the automakers getting the single national standard they've been seeking and more time to make the changes.

Obama's proposed change in rules would for the first time combine pollution reduction from vehicle tailpipes with increased efficiency on the road. It would save 1.8 billion barrels of oil through 2016 and would be the environmental equivalent of taking 177 million cars off the road, said senior administration officials speaking anonymously, ahead of the announcement.

New vehicles would be 30 percent cleaner and more fuel-efficient by the end of the program, they said.

MGE will expand solar program

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

From a news release issued by Madison Gas and Electric:

Madison, Wis., May 19, 2009 . . . Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) will expand its Clean Power Partners solar energy program by more than three times.

MGE received permission last week from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to increase this pilot program from 300 kilowatts to 1 megawatt, said Gary Wolter, chairman, president and CEO, at the 2009 MGE Energy Annual Meeting.

In 2008, the program's capacity was doubled from its original 150 kilowatts. Clean Power Partners is now fully subscribed with a total of 62 solar installations—40 residential and 22 commercial/industrial projects.

Clean Power Partners encourages customers to install solar photovoltaic systems on their homes or businesses and then sell the energy back to MGE for $0.25 per kilowatt-hour. The solar energy is part of MGE's green pricing program—Green Power Tomorrow.

MGE's green pricing program was recently recognized for having the second highest participation rate of all investor-owned utilities in the country by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewal Energy Laboratory.

In addition, MGE ranks in the top 1% nationwide in green power sales as a percentage of total retail electricity sold. MGE ranks sixth out of a total of 850 utilities. The company increased wind power capacity by more than 12 times in 2008 as four new wind farms in Wisconsin and Iowa began production.

Open house and tour of We Energies wind farm, May 20

Monday, May 18, 2009

A view of the Blue Sky Green Fields wind farm from the project's operations center.

An announcement from We Energies:

Wednesday, May 20, 2009
3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Blue Sky Green Field Office
N9470 County Highway W
Malone, WI 53049

Tours will be given approximately every 30 minutes. Please stop by at your convenience during the tour hours listed above. No reservations required. The turbine is located a short walking distance from the parking area. Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on a graveled surface.

The Blue Sky Green Field Wind Energy Center, located in the towns of Calumet and Marshfield in northeast Fond du Lac County, is designed to generate 145 megawatts (MW) of electricity, and is capable of powering approximately 36,000 average residential homes. The site consists of 88 wind turbines.

Construction of the project began in June 2007. On May 19, 2008, Blue Sky Green Field was placed into commercial operation. We invite you to visit our facility and learn more about wind energy.

If you have any questions, call 920-980-3224.

Green success: City of Madison, Air Force, Vilas Zoo

Friday, May 15, 2009

Individuals and business can help by purchasing renewable energy through MG&E's Green Power Tomorrow or Alliant's Second Nature and by taking the Mpower Pledge.

RENEW's spring newsletter now online

Thursday, May 14, 2009

The spring edition of RENEW's newsletter includes the following articles:

Legislature to Tackle Wind Permitting
The Importance of Doing the Math
Stimulus Package 101
Policy Drives Solar Hot Water Market
PSC Investigates Renewable Tariffs
Open Letter from RENEW President
Calendar

Solar power economically viable here

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

From a letter to the editor of The Capital Times by the UW-Madison Environmental Studies 112 Honors Group:

Dear Editor: There's a common misconception that being green is the same as being economically impractical. Seen as nothing more than a conscience pleaser for the rich, renewable energy has long been perceived as expensive and beyond the reach of the average American. However, when it comes to solar power, this really isn't the case. Through a large number of economic incentives and buyback programs, solar power can pay for itself and then some within years and simultaneously help in the fight against global warming.

Although there is an initial expenditure, state, federal and industrial help abounds. Companies such as We Energies and programs like Wisconsin Focus on Energy offer cash-back rewards for up to a quarter of the installation price, and electric companies like Alliant Energy and Madison Gas & Electric also offer 10-year contracts in which a solar panel keeper can sell energy back to the grid at about $1 a kilowatt per day for a small system. This extra source of income can hit $6,000 a year for a medium-sized system alone. Between the tax exemptions, rebates, grants and buybacks, solar panel systems pay for themselves in a matter of years and are a wise investment for any savvy consumer. And, with a life of 30 to 50 years, they become a long-term moneymaker.

The economic benefits extend to the entire economy as well. Solar energy is a fast-growing field, and the numbers speak for themselves: For each megawatt installed, 36 jobs are created . . . .

Environmental Studies 112 Honors Group
UW-Madison

Editor's note: UW-Madison's Environmental Studies 112 Honors Group spent the spring semester researching the feasibility of solar power.

Metro Transit may use added revenue to increase service

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

From an article by Dean Mosiman in the Wisconsin State Journal:

After Madison increased bus fares 50 cents to $2 last month, Metro Transit is now proposing to use some of that new revenue to boost service.

Metro wants to restore Route 10, which would link the Near East Side and UW Hospital and create 15-minute service between the UW-Madison campus and the hospital.

The proposal also includes increasing service on 10 other routes, including adding trips and cutting wait times at transfer points on Route 18 and adding a morning trip on Route 20.

Metro’s proposal would add nearly 30 hours of service a day at an annual cost of $390,000. If approved, the changes would take place in August.

House Democrats agree on cash for clunkers

Monday, May 11, 2009

From an Associated Press article by Dina Cappiello published in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Key lawmakers agreed Tuesday on a strategy for replacing gas-guzzling cars with more fuel-efficient models, but much tougher negotiations lie ahead on a bill that would, for the first time, limit emissions linked to global warming.

President Barack Obama summoned three dozen House Democrats to the White House to build consensus around climate and energy legislation that is under increasing criticism from Republicans and members of his own party.

The administration has endorsed the bill broadly, saying it would advance key parts of the president's domestic agenda, namely slowing global warming and transitioning to a clean energy economy.

But the details have largely been left to the House Energy committee, which is still working on the final language and has postponed a vote due to cost concerns raised by the panel's moderate Democrats.

Committee members emerged from the meeting Tuesday claiming a modest victory. They said they agreed to embrace a "cash for clunkers" plan that would provide $3500 or $4500 to people who replace old, low-efficiency cars with new, more fuel-efficient models.

Riding the current of change

Friday, May 08, 2009

From an article article by Tom Content in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

Chicago - Anyone looking for signs that sectors of the economy have found some shelter from the recession needed only to walk the halls of the McCormick Place convention center Thursday.

With more than 1,200 exhibitors, the world's largest trade show for the wind power industry saw record attendance in its bid to prove that energy from wind has escaped the label "alternative."

"When you look at this show, you wouldn't know there's a slowdown in the economy," Kim Zuhlke, an executive at Alliant Energy Corp., said while standing between massive booths at the conference Thursday.

Organizers of Windpower 2009, sponsored by the American Wind Energy Association, weren't sure how their conference would do, but the show ended up attracting more than 20,000 people. That's 60% more than attended last year in Houston, the association said.

The recession has hit the wind power industry just like every other sector of the economy, as projects stalled for lack of financing. In an industry forecast earlier this year, the association said the wind industry is likely to slow this year after setting records for new projects last year.

"Everyone's been in a holding pattern. It's not just wind energy - the entire country had taken a pause," said Ellen Shafer of Broadwind Energy, based near Chicago.

But the mood at the convention this week has been one of optimism, said Shafer, whose company has two Wisconsin subsidiaries - TowerTech, a Manitowoc maker of wind towers, and Badger Transport of Clintonville, a trucking company specializing in hauling the oversized components that are the ingredients of a wind farm development.

First public charging station for electric cars

Thursday, May 07, 2009

From an article on Alternative Energy News:

During a low-key ceremony just over a week ago, the first public high-voltage charging station for electric vehicles was inaugurated at the Gateway Center in East Woodland California. Representatives from Tesla Motors were on hand to help demonstrate with six Tesla Roadsters. The power station is capable of charging an electric car in about one hour and is meant to set an example for future stations being planned in other states.

The station is a result of collaboration between developers and the city, and is located east of Interstate-5 off County Road 102 at the Gateway Center. It contains one Tesla, two AVcons, one small paddle inductive charger, plus two neighborhood electric vehicle standard outlets. Plug-in America estimates that some 200-300 EVs of various types are located within 100 miles of the site, which will accommodate all new EVs and PHEVs.

Like cyclist's death, our way of life is a tragedy

Wednesday, May 06, 2009

From a letter to the editor of The Capital Times by Hans Noeldner, an activie participant in the Madison Peak Oil Group:

Dear Editor: Our failure as a community to support and reward those who attempt to go about their lives at a walking or bicycling pace is bad enough. But the recent cyclist fatality near Brooklyn reminds us that we-the-drivers often pose a life-and-death threat to non-motorists.

The swift, the powerful and the heavily armored so thoroughly dominate most of our public thoroughfares today that merely walking or bicycling across them can be hazardous. (Walk or bicycle along them? Forget it!)

Our pervasive (if unintentional) disregard for the "least among us" -- those annoyingly slow, small, vulnerable creatures called pedestrians and bicyclists -- represents one of the most flagrant injustices in our society. We've made things even worse by withdrawing ever more frequently into our supersized vehicular exoskeletons. Many of us now consider a three-ton armored personnel carrier a practical necessity for conveying our youngster to extracurricular activities. "My child needs to participate just like other normal children, and I need a big SUV to keep her safe!"

. . . .Not only is the Brooklyn cyclist's death a tragedy; our sprawling, hyper-mobile, resource-gobbling way of life is a tragedy as well. And so long as we cling to our steering wheels; so long as our leaders deploy American troops all over Earth to ensure an uninterrupted flow of cheap energy into our tanks, nothing will change.
. . . .

Renewable energy education and training opportunities in Wisconsin

Monday, May 04, 2009

Focus on Energy provides links to renewable energy training courses -- professional development, technical colleges, and universities.

Regional transit authority for Dane County gets state budget panel OK

Friday, May 01, 2009

From a story by Scott Bauer in The Capital Times:

The Legislature's budget committee on Friday approved a plan to use a mixture of higher sales taxes and car rental fees to pay for high-speed rail and other transit projects in the two most populated parts of the state.

The measures, part of the two-year state budget, must pass the full Legislature and be approved by Doyle before it becomes law.

In Dane County, a half-cent sales tax could be imposed to pay for commuter rail and other transit projects.

In Milwaukee, Racine and Kenosha counties up to $16 could be charged on car rentals to pay for a commuter rail line connecting the three southeastern Wisconsin cities. A new board created to oversee the rail line's construction also could levy $50 million in bonds to help pay for it. The project has been discussed for years but always stalled over ways to pay for it.

Also, Milwaukee County would be allowed to impose a 1 percent sales tax to pay for a countywide regional transit authority. The $132 million raised each year would pay for transit, parks, cultural and emergency medical services. Fifteen percent would go to the city of Milwaukee.

On a 9-7 vote, the committee voted against Gov. Jim Doyle's proposal to create a regional transit authority in the Fox Cities to help pay for the existing regional bus system using up to half a cent sales tax. . . .

Commuter rail supporters include environmentalists, business groups, organized labor and local governments, and organizations representing the disabled and elderly. They supported commuter rail to ease congestion, create jobs and spur economic development.

Bipartisan group of legislators introduce wind siting bill

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Terry McGowan of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 139 speaks at the press conference for the introduction of a bill to set uniform siting standards for wind projects in Wisconsin.

From a news release issued by Sen. Jeff Plale, Rep. Jim Soletski, Sen. Randy Hopper, and Rep. Phil Montgomery:

MADISON – A bipartisan coalition of Wisconsin legislators announced that they are introducing legislation that calls for the creation of uniform siting standards for wind energy projects. Senate Bill 185 (SB 185), and its Assembly companion, directs the Public Service Commission (PSC), after public input, including a stakeholder committee, to establish by rule, permitting standards to be applied by local or state government to wind energy installations, regardless of size and location.

“Too many wind projects are victims of delay tactics and other obstructions,” Senator Jeff Plale, Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Utilities, Energy, and Rail said. “SB 185 will enhance Wisconsin’s economy by protecting and creating “green-collar” jobs; it will attract new investment to our state and support state energy policy. I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure that we can make Wisconsin more attractive to wind energy and achieve the resulting economic and environmental benefits.”

“A sensible wind energy policy will help Wisconsin harness the jobs and growth opportunities that green power provides,” stated Representative Jim Soletski, Chair of the Assembly Energy and Utilities Committee. “I am excited to be working with a bipartisan group of legislators from diverse regions of the state to remove the obstacles to more development of wind power in Wisconsin. By advancing this legislation, Wisconsin utilities can move toward meeting their obligation to generate clean energy and much needed jobs can be created for our workers.”

"We can't build a 21st century energy infrastructure by digging in our heels,” Senator Randy Hopper said. “This legislation will ensure that interested parties from all over our state can take part in developing the Public Service Commission's guidelines."

"Wind power is job-creating power," according to Representative Phil Montgomery. "A fair and uniform state standard for siting wind developments will create an environment of investment in our state while moving us closer to our green energy goals."

In addition to RENEW, the following organizations issued statements of support for Senate Bill 185: CREWE, Clean Wisconsin, Citizens Utility Board, Customers First!, Renewegy, Wind Capital Group, WPPI/Municipal Electric Utilities.

Madison Peak Oil Group signs letter in support of RTA

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

From the letter sent to members of the Wisconsin Legislature:

April 29, 2009

To the members of the Wisconsin Senate and Assembly:

Regional Transportation Authorities can create jobs and a stronger economy by empowering communities to operate cost-effective, balanced transportation systems . . . .

Many states have RTAs or similar mechanisms that provide governance and financial stability for transit across municipal boundaries. They have used RTAs to vault ahead of Wisconsin in providing business-friendly, green, and convenient transportation choices. Under Wisconsin’s cumbersome and antiquated rules, cities that provide transit must contract with one another and squeeze transit funding out of their general revenues, mainly from property taxes. The resulting unstable, underfunded transit cannot compete for federal construction dollars, and cannot provide sustainable service to its communities.

We support the Governor’s RTA proposal in A.B. 75 to create the Dane County RTA, Fox Cities RTA and Southeast RTA. In addition we support language in A.B. 75 that will permit Wisconsin’s communities not covered in the Governor’s Budget to form RTAs with the authority to levy a sales tax of up to 0.5 percent.

Signed by the following: 1000 Friends of Wisconsin; AARP Wisconsin State Office; American Council of the Blind – Wisconsin Chapter; Bike Federation of Wisconsin; Citizen Action of Wisconsin; Citizens Utility Board; Clean Wisconsin; Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups (CWAG); Dane Alliance for Rational Transportation - DART; Disability Rights Wisconsin; Environmental Law & Policy Center; League of Wisconsin Municipalities; Madison Area Bus Advocates; Madison Peak Oil Group; Midwest Environmental Advocates; One Wisconsin Now; Racine Area Manufacturers and Commerce; Sierra Club - John Muir Chapter; Southeastern Wisconsin Coalition for Transit NOW;
Wisconsin Alliance of Cities; Wisconsin Apollo Alliance; Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired; Wisconsin Interfaith Climate & Energy Campaign; Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters; Wisconsin Urban & Rural Transit Association; WISPIRG

Exploring a solar cooperative here in Madison

Monday, April 27, 2009

Come to a free talk open to all in the community to discuss investing in and owning local solar projects!

Monday, May 4th
7-8pm
Goodman Community Center
149 Waubesa Street, between Atwood & Milwaukee

Speakers:
Gil Halsted & Kurt Reinhold, Community Solar
Burke O’Neil, Full Spectrum Solar

More information: email Kurt at Solarconnections@gmail.com

Regional transit authority on committee agenda this week

The legislature's Joint Committee on Finance will take up the proposal to create a regional transit authority for the Madison metropolitan area. The Legislative Fiscal Bureau issued a lengthy description the proposal:

Specify that the Dane County regional transit authority (DCRTA), a public body corporate and politic and a separate governmental entity, would be created if the governing body of Dane County adopts a resolution authorizing the county to become a member of the authority. If Dane County creates an regional transit authority (RTA), all municipalities located in whole or in part within the Madison metropolitan planning area would be members of the authority. In addition, any municipality located in whole or in part within Dane County, that is not located in whole or in part within the Madison metropolitan planning area, may join the Dane County RTA if the governing body of the municipality adopts a resolution to join the authority and the RTA Board approves the municipality's request to jointhe RTA.

Specify that the jurisdictional area of the Dane County RTA would be the geographic area formed by the Madison metropolitan planning area combined with the territorial boundaries of all municipalities that adopt a resolution to join the authority.

Rail pointless if it doesn't go downtown

Friday, April 24, 2009

A letter to the editor of The Capital Times by Roger Danielsen:

It would be nice if the Wisconsin Department of Transportation would measure what's actually being proposed in regard to high-speed rail in Wisconsin against the words recently spoken by President Barack Obama.

Obama said: "Imagine boarding a train in the center of the city. No racing to an airport and across a terminal, no delays, no sitting on the tarmac, no lost luggage, no taking off your shoes. Imagine whisking through towns at speeds over 110 miles an hour, walking only a few steps to public transportation, and ending up just blocks from your destination. Imagine what a great project that would be to rebuild America."

According to the proposal from the Department of Transportation, no one will be boarding in the center of Madison. You will in fact have to "race" to the Dane County Regional Airport for the train.

As a frequent traveler to Madison, what possible reason would I have to want to be dumped off at the airport? I've asked this question to several state and national officials with no response as of yet. If it isn't going to actually get you to somewhere meaningful in Madison, why bother spending the millions of dollars to get you just somewhat closer to your destination?

I look forward to someday maybe being able to take high-speed rail to Madison, but I have no desire to pay to go to an abandoned former Air Force base in the middle of nowhere.

Oil & gas industry seeks energy dependence, ignores peak oil, and opposes climate protection plans

Thursday, April 23, 2009

The oil and gas industry's energy policy: Drill, baby, drill! Import, baby, import!:

+ Increase, not decrease energy production by promoting all sources. [In other words, peak oil doesn't exist.]
+ Encourage energy efficiency as a core American principle.
+ Encourage investment in advanced technologies and long-term energy initiatives.
+ Allow market forces to allocate products and adjust to changing conditions.
+ Refrain from new taxes that make it more expensive to develop our domestic supplies.
+ Support the need to participate actively in global energy markets rather than isolate the U.S. [In other words, become more dependent on foreign sources.]

From print ad of the oil and gas industry:

Congress will soon consider massive new taxes and fees – which could easily exceed $400 billion – on America’s oil and natural gas industry, yet this level could produce devastating effects on our economy, all when America can least afford it.

These unprecedented taxes and fees would reduce investment in new energy supplies at a time when nearly two-thirds of Americans support developing our domestic oil and natural gas resources. That would mean less energy, and it would cost thousands of American jobs, actually reduce local, state and federal revenue, and further erode our energy security.

Learn more and tell Congress to oppose these proposals to impose $400 billion in tax hikes on America’s oil and natural gas companies. By using SocialCapital, you can voice your opinions to public officials and members of Congress about key energy issues via Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and more.

'Clean coal' debate plays out on the airwaves

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

From a story by Quinn Bowman posted at the Online NewsHour With Jim Lehrer:

American television audiences are likely noticing a battle being waged during commercial breaks as millions of dollars are being spent on advertising to promote or denigrate a mysterious-sounding buzzword: clean coal technology.

In an ad produced by the American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity, a coal industry group, then-candidate Barack Obama tells a cheering crowd that he wants to create new clean energy jobs with clean coal technology. "Yes we can," the crowd chants.

Rival organization the Reality Coalition, made up of environmental groups such as the Sierra Club and the National Wildlife Foundation, produced a spot with a mock salesman touting clean coal technology as he sprays an aerosol can of soot inside a family's home.

The public relations battle is the face of an ongoing debate among environmentalists, the government and the coal industry about how to contend with the massive amounts of carbon dioxide emitted into the atmosphere by coal-burning power plants.

This Earth Day, take your pledge one step further with CO2gether

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

From Mpowering Madison:

Once you’ve joined 3,500 Madison area residents in taking the Mpower Pledge, you can document your progress with the help of an interactive carbon calculator specific to south-central Wisconsin.

Register for CO2gether.org, take the video tour, join the Mpower discussion group and begin to track your carbon footprint!

CO2gether is brought to us by 1000 Friends of Wisconsin, MG&E and UW-Madison's Center for Sustainability and the Global Environment.

Seven businesses become Mpower ChaMpions

Monday, April 20, 2009

From the spring newsletter of Sustain Dane:

Sustain Dane and the Mpower partners have announced the selection of seven area businesses into the Mpower Business Champions program. These local businesses collectively employ over 783 individuals and occupy over 539,800 sq ft of building include Webcrafters Inc., Great Big Pictures Inc, Sergenian's Floor Coverings, The Payroll Company, Capital Insurance Companies, designCraft Advertising and JJR.

The participating businesses are very enthusiastic about the opportunities the program will bring them. . . .

The effort is made possible through a two-year grant from the EPA and sponsorship from several area organizations including MG&E and Alliant Energy. Each of the Mpower Business Champions will receive one-on-one assistance to take significant steps towards reducing their carbon footprint including:

+ Training from various Mpower partners including MG&E, Alliant Energy, Madison Water Utility and UW-Extension SHWEC on how to incorporate sustainability into business practice with an emphasis on green building, environmentally preferable purchasing and energy and water conservation.
+ On-site energy audits and assessments, including a findings and recommendations report provided by Focus on Energy.
+ Direct access to MadiSUN Solar Agent to provide a wide array of technical, financial and policy information related to solar energy options through the City of Madison.
+ Use of the Energy Stewards software program from Rapid Improvement Associates to trackenergy use history, action performance tracking and online forums to learn from other business participants.
+ On-site waste audit and assessments, including recommendations to stream line their waste handling procedures and help determine what recycling options are available provided by Waste Management.
+ Support to develop and empower employee-based teams to take actions in their daily lives to reduce the environmental impact of their household through the EnAct program.
+ Assistance from the Madison Area Metropolitan Planning Organization in developing a transportation demand management plan to provide a comphrehensive set of commuter options for employees.
+ The chance to be featured by Mpower Madison media partners WKOW and in web-based case studies.

MG&E visits solar projects; people give energy saving tips

Friday, April 17, 2009

High speed rail in Madison, Midwest on Obama's top 10 list

Thursday, April 16, 2009

From an article in The Capital Times:

A high speed rail project that includes Madison is in President Obama's strategic plan of a "top 10" list of rail projects that have been identified to jump-start a potential world-class passenger rail system in America.

The president released his strategic plan for high speed rail Thursday morning -- a plan that would spend $8 billion in stimulus funds and another $1 billion a year for five years as a down payment to revitalizing the country's passenger rail system.

The 10 corridors identified in the plan include the Chicago Hub Network, which would link Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison and Minneapolis/St. Paul, and also would have high-speed lines serving St. Louis, Kansas City, Detroit, Toledo, Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Indianapolis and Louisville.

A Peak Oil Presentation, April 15

Monday, April 13, 2009

Energy, Natural Resources, and Human Behavior on a Full Planet
April 15, 2009, 7:00pm
Science Hall, Rm 180
Madison, WI

This talk by Nate Hagens, Editor, theoildrum.com, will provide a framework for planning supply and demand mitigation and adaptation strategies to fossil fuel depletion. Nate believes by acknowledging and understanding both our biophysical (resource depletion) and biological (cognitive barriers, habituation, and belief systems) constraints we will be better able to choose cultural opportunities for sustainability. He synthesizes recent research in cognitive neuroscience, neuroeconomics, and evolutionary biology and their applications to sustainability oriented behaviors in addressing energy and environmental limits. Ultimately Hagens looks for those solutions that are aligned with not only what we have, but who we are. Discussion to follow.

Nate Hagens is a PhD Candidate at the University of Vermont Gund Institute for Ecological Economics and Editor of The Oil Drum, an online global think tank devoted to energy and sustainability. Prior to UVM, Nate developed trading algorithms for commodity systems and was President of Sanctuary Asset Management, Managing Director of Pension Research Institute, and Vice President at the investment firms Salomon Brothers and Lehman Brothers. Nate has an MBA with honors from University of Chicago and a BBA in Business Administration from University of Wisconsin-Madison.

More details at Energy Hub.

Fuel cost savings doesn't equal fare decrease for bus riders

Friday, April 10, 2009

From a post on Mayor Dave's Blog:

A few weeks ago I asked city staff to go out for fuel bids for 2010. I didn't expect to decide to lock in, but I wanted to see where the market was at. As it turned out we got surprisingly strong bids, so I made a decision to lock in. The result is that the city will save about $2.6 million on fuel in 2010 as compared to what we're spending in 2009.

About $1.8 million of that savings will go to the Metro bus system, and so some have asked how that impacts the need for the fare increase that went into effect this week.

Of course, locking in on lower fuel prices next year is good on two fronts. It will allow us to plan better because our fuel budget won't be a wild card. And it will also make it more likely that I can make good on my determination not to raise fares or cut service next year.

But the good news on the fuel contract doesn't lessen the need for the fare increase now. For one thing, the new fuel contract doesn't kick in until next year, so it doesn't help with 2009 prices, which were locked in at a higher level. If we were to roll back the fare increase, we'd still be looking at a budget deficit in Metro of about $700,000.

Some say Badger Bus' plan to close is shortsighted

Thursday, April 09, 2009

From an article by Kristin Czubkowski in The Capital Times:

By most accounts, the proposed redevelopment of the Badger Bus depot on West Washington Avenue into a mixed-use retail and luxury apartment site is a relatively modest project, maxing out at five stories along one of the city's most prominent corridors. But it's what the development will replace -- a downtown transit hub that has been in place for decades -- that is generating controversy and sparking discussion about the future of downtown transportation in Madison.

The Madison Peak Oil Group and Madison Area Bus Advocates, two local organizations that frequently work together on transportation issues, have advocated at numerous meetings in recent weeks for a transit center downtown. Madison Peak Oil Group member David Knuti said city officials have shown interest in their argument, but little desire for action.

"Obviously nobody's making it a priority," Knuti said. "The long-term bus thing is really going to be a mess when the station gets shut down."

According to John Meier of Badger Bus, the company has discussed redeveloping the depot site for several years. Badger Bus regularly runs between Madison and Milwaukee, stopping at Johnson Creek along the way, and provides charter and tour bus services, as well. The bus, which costs $35 round-trip from Madison to Milwaukee, is popular among University of Wisconsin-Madison students, who comprise 80percent of Badger Bus' current customer base. . . .

Whether high-speed rail even goes into downtown Madison may be another factor in where a major transit hub is located. Currently, the state Department of Transportation has expressed "a strong preference" for putting a high-speed rail stop between Minneapolis and Milwaukee at the Dane County Regional Airport, Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said, and there may be an advantage to putting a hub at the airport if that's the only rail stop in Madison.

"Ideally, you would like a hub to be in your downtown, but there are advantages to putting it at the airport," he said. "Our airport has the advantage of being very close, a 10-minute ride to downtown. … I think in our case, having it at the airport might work."

Ultimately, despite being an "exciting time" for transit, Cieslewicz and other officials agree that it is likely that Madison will operate for at least part of 2009 or 2010 without a downtown bus depot.

"It is fair to say that the proposed Badger Bus station (redevelopment) absolutely has brought to the forefront the implications of the fact that we don't really have a clear plan for an expanded public transportation system downtown," Verveer said.

Energy on the docket at Earth Day conference

Wednesday, April 08, 2009

From an article in The Capital Times:

Biomass, wind, solar and the strategy to produce and maintain a sustainable homegrown energy plan will be the topics of the day on April 22 during the third annual Earth Day conference at Monona Terrace in Madison.

The conference is put together by the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is co-sponsored by American Family Insurance, Madison Gas & Electric, Alliant Energy, the Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corp., the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the British Consulate-General of Chicago.

Participants at the one-day conference will discuss emerging federal and state energy policies, opportunities for homegrown energy resources, how to create jobs, and how the state responded to previous energy challenges.

Guest speakers will include Eric Callisto, chair of the Wisconsin Public Service Commission; Charles Cicchetti, former PSC chair and co-founder of Pacific Economics Group; Donald Albinger, vice president for renewable energy at Johnson Controls; Faramarz Vakili-Zadeh, director of the We Conserve program at UW-Madison; and Alastair Totty, head of the national climate change team at the British Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Details online.

Speak up or the Badger Bus depot comes down!

Tuesday, April 07, 2009

From an email on the listserve of the Madison Peak Oil Group:

The city of Madison continues to slouch toward loss of its only bus depot, and letting "the market" decide haphazardly the future of any rail and intermodal connections with the buses. City officials, committees, and the UW seem to be equally passive. Meanwhile, Gov. Doyle was in Chicago yesterday to say we're all ready for trains from Chicago, Milwaukee to Madison, the money is there, and please come Olympics. Badger Bus Company is making decisions in its own interests and moving ahead with a rapid redevelopment/conversion of its depot to new apartment buildings on its site. Their plan will formally be submitted to the city on April 15th we expect, and all city approvals will be in place lickety-split by July. Our bus depot, and some big options for rail, will be gone by July unless the public begins to question it.

Please consider giving a short statement at the next Long Range meeting in the middle of this month. Members of the public get 3 minutes at the beginning of the meeting. Last week there was some useful testimony on the Badger Bus. This agenda will include time for the committee members to delve into more discussion on the topic. It's especially useful to come since there may be two new Alders on the committee (after the election today), so a refresh and expansion of our concerns is in order.

Long Range Transportation Planning Commission
Thursday, April 16
5:00 pm

Meets in the Madison Municipal Building (one with the post office) on 215 MLK Jr. Blvd. Usually meets in Lower Level, Room 110, but last time met on the 3rd floor, so if you don't find it on the lower level, ask around.

One cluster of issues to discuss include the Badger Bus and what are the options for intermodal transportation hub in Madison (particularly something downtown is needed)? FYI, there is NO plan for Greyhound buses, and UW says they don't have room for them to stop at Memorial Union...will there still be a bus to the Twin Cities, or can't you get there from here??

The other main cluster of issues is around the subject of Hi Speed Rail coming to the Airport (or to elsewhere in the city). The LRTPC seems to think it has no right to advise the Plan Commission on some of these subjects (?). We need to check in with the LRTPC on 4/16 also to see if they've gotten further information from
city traffic engineering, as they said they would, on all these plans to use Langdon outside the Union for all Badger Bus originations (as well as Van Galder, the campus buses, etc.) -- it's getting crowded!

Also look for an article on this subject this THURSDAY [April 9] in The Capital Times.

University of Wisconsin-Madison honored as bike-friendly campus

Monday, April 06, 2009

From an article in The Capital Times:

The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s push for more bicycle usage on campus has earned a silver award from the League of American Bicyclists in the league’s Bicycle Friendly Business program.

The program honors corporations, organizations and nonprofit groups that promote bicycling into their everyday culture and encourage their employees and constituencies to become active in cycling.

“We’re delighted to highlight the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the ways in which they are getting more people on bikes,” said Andy Clark, president of the League of American Bicyclists.

UW-Madison is using bicycling as a major component of its alternative transportation program, UW Commuter Solutions, and has developed the Campus Drive Pedestrian and Bicycle Path, complete with solar-powered lighting, to reaffirm its commitment to biking on campus.

Planned fast-train stop at Madison airport disappoints some

Friday, April 03, 2009

From an article by Larry Sandler in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

On the drive from Waukesha to Madison, Roger Danielsen has often wondered why he couldn't take a train instead.

But now that the state is pushing for $519 million in federal money to build a 110-mph passenger rail line between Milwaukee and Madison, Danielsen says the planned train still wouldn't lure him out of his car.

The reason: Madison's new train station would be built at Dane County Regional Airport, on the city's east side, not downtown near Capitol Square or the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. And Danielsen, a Waukesha graphic artist who travels regularly to Madison on business, is one of a number of state residents complaining about that decision.

"If traveling to Madison, what possible reason would I want to be dropped off at the Dane County Regional Airport, miles from downtown?" Danielsen wrote in a recent e-mail to state and federal officials. "If I have to take local bus / snail transportation to get from the airport to where I wanted to be in the first place downtown, you just put me back in my car again, time-wise and convenience-wise."

Others voiced similar comments after the Journal Sentinel reported recently that Gov. Jim Doyle was seeking federal stimulus dollars to pick up the full cost of the long-planned rail route linking Wisconsin's two largest cities. If approved, the line would offer six daily round trips, starting as early as late 2012 or early 2013, with stops in Brookfield, Oconomowoc and Watertown.

The problem with a downtown Madison station is that this train line isn't just a Milwaukee-to-Madison route, a state official says. It's intended to become a segment of a longer route that would eventually run all the way from Chicago to the Twin Cities, as part of a Midwestern network of fast, frequent trains. And a side trip through the capital city's crowded isthmus and back again would eat up too much time for travelers continuing beyond Madison, said Randy Wade, the state Department of Transportation's passenger rail manager.

To reach downtown Madison, trains would have to slow down on their way through numerous crossings, then back up all the way to the airport to leave town, Wade said. That also would boost the cost of the route, he said. Wade did not have figures on how much time or money a downtown spur would add.

Danielsen said he would be happy with a connecting local train, like the St. Louis light rail line that connects that city's downtown to its airport. And planners have considered running a Dane County commuter train to the airport. But the current plan for that $250 million project is to run from Middleton to downtown to Sun Prairie, bypassing the airport.

Wind-energy leader Vestas forges partnership with UW-Madison College of Engineering

Wednesday, April 01, 2009

From a news release issued by the UW-Madison:

Vestas, the world's leading producer of wind-power technology, has entered into a long-term partnership with the College of Engineering that promises to propel wind-energy research, provide student learning opportunities and give the company a long-term presence in Madison.

"Wind energy is a growing source of new power generation in the world and the technology has even greater untapped potential," says Grainger Professor of Power Electronics and Electrical Machines Thomas Jahns, who helped establish the partnership. "By teaming with an industry leader like Vestas, our research environment will thrive, and Wisconsin will see expanded opportunities in wind energy and other renewable-energy options."

Under the partnership, Vestas will begin providing funding support this year that will grow to sponsor as many as 10 graduate and undergraduate students working on wind technology projects. The company also plans to provide visiting research fellows to campus and start a small research-and-development facility near the engineering campus that will focus on technology transfer.

Transporter says wind-power shipments 'took off' in March

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

From an article by Tom Content in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

Suppliers to the auto industry may want to shift their focus to wind components, given incentives for renewable energy included in the federal stimulus package.

Wisconsin has always been a supply-chain state, to the farm industry with implements, then to the auto industry with motors. But the effort to woo the wind-power industry to the state is centered north of Milwaukee, the former machine shop to the world.

The focus on wind is coming from The New North, the economic development initiative of northeastern Wisconsin, home to Tower Tech in Manitowoc, Badger Transport in Clintonville and dozens of other suppliers to the wind industry.

The wind industry had been growing at a record pace year after year until it was hit by the economic slowdown like other businesses, said Jeff Anthony of the American Wind Energy Association.

The wind industry's growth has been something to watch, said Al Johnson, president of Badger Transport, which ships the wind industry's oversized components.

"We do everything," he said. "We do the towers and the blades and the cells."

Johnson's company has been involved in the wind industry since 1997, and seen it grow from less than one-third of his company's sales to more than 90% today.

"I was involved in it when it was feast or famine for quite a number of years."

Companies clustered
Across northeastern Wisconsin, 95 companies are supplying the wind industry, creating an economic cluster that the region seeks to capitalize on.

"When we focus on the wind industry, our message is not: 'Come to northeast Wisconsin and build your wind farm,' but rather: 'Come to northeast Wisconsin if you are involved with the supply-chain side of the wind industry,' " said Josh Morby, spokesman for The New North.

Madison to get $2.4 million in stimulus aid for energy improvements

Monday, March 30, 2009

Froman article by Mark Pitsch in the Wisconsin State Journal:

Madison would get $2.4 million for energy improvements under the federal economic stimulus law, the White House announced today.

That money is part of the $37.2 million headed to Wisconsin for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program portion of law. The money builds on $197 million in weatherization and energy funding being sent to the state and announced earlier this month.