UEC partners with PAREI to bring Alternative Energy Roundtable

Concerned about the rising cost and future of energy? Confused about the new federal tax incentives for solar installations? Inspired by solar homes, but not in a position to build your own? Curious about how students and others can make meaningful-and financially realistic-changes that conserve energy, even in rented residences? Then come to the Alternative Energy and Energy Conservation Roundtable Discussion on Monday, December 5 at 6:30 pm in Hyde 220, part of PSU’s “Living Lightly” theme. The roundtable, jointly sponsored by the University Environmental Committee (UEC) and the Plymouth Area Renewable Energy Initiative (PAREI), has been designed as a casual forum for students, faculty, staff, and members of the community at large to gather information about ways to implement green energy and conserve energy. A panel of individuals representing various facets of the renewable energy scene will be available to answer questions and provide information. Peter Adams serves as board president and Co-Director of PAREI, a local initiative organized to reduce barriers to the use of renewable energy by educating individuals, encouraging community-based partnerships, and assisting families with planning for their energy future and preparing for a lower energy world through local partnerships. Members of PAREI coordinate and assist in Energy Raisers, a community installation of solar hot water systems modeled after traditional barn raisers. Patrick Miller is the Executive Director of the Jordan Institute, a Concord, NH-based organization whose focus is on the relationship between the built environment, public well-being, and ecological health. Patrick resides in an active and passive solar home which utilized local materials in its construction. Josh Trought is the Executive Director of D Acres, a rural educational center in Dorchester, NH. Set on 200 acres of forest land, D Acres serves as a model homestead for sustainable living; educational programs include diverse topics such as organic farming and gardening, woodworking, earthen building, composting, sustainable forestry, and more. Josh has participated in the construction of various types of green buildings, including straw-bale construction, timber-frame construction using materials harvested on-site, and solar construction. As regional director of Solar Works, Ted Vansant is active in promoting and installing solar thermal and photovoltaic (solar-electric) systems in both homes and businesses throughout New Hampshire. His vision is to incorporate renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency into new construction as well as existing buildings. Questions regarding the roundtable may be directed to Len Reitsma, Chair of the Biological Sciences Department at 535-2558.