Nebraska’s Energy Fair
Event provides residents opportunity to learn about reducing energy costs and gives them a hint of better things to come.
September 12, 2008
By Martin Kleinschmit, Center for Rural Affairs
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Energy resources are as close as the sun.
iStockphoto.com/rotofrank
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Hartington, Nebraska – The Center for Rural Affairs host the first Renewable Energy Fair ever in the state of Nebraska on September 18. The Renewable Energy Fair takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Cedar County Fairgrounds in Hartington.
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Participants will learn about small and utility-scale wind turbines, see bio-diesel being made on the grounds, hear speakers discuss hybrid and electric cars, learn about USDA programs on energy efficiency and renewable energy systems, and delve into the concepts of home-built solar heaters and energy conservation programs and practices.
"Many people feel like victims in today's high-cost energy world. The goal of this fair is to provide examples of things folks can do today to reduce energy costs and give them some hint of better things to come in the future," says Martin Kleinschmit of the Center for Rural Affairs. "This is not intended to be an in-depth discussion of any renewable energy concept, but rather, a quick exposure to ideas and practices out there. The fair will feature one-hour presentations with an opportunity for one-on-one discussions throughout the day.
"Energy drives the economy at the local, state and national level,” Kleinschmit says. “Who owns the energy can influence the success of the region. The more we control our energy system the more we control our future. Gaining control of our energy bill is not only about new renewable energy systems or exciting new technology. Often the best way to reduce energy costs is conservation. The best energy savings are gathered through the kilowatts and gallons not used. The Iowa Energy Center will be at the fair to show how saving energy can be rewarding and fun at the same time.”