Media Contact:
Tim Wirtz
Hoffman York
414-225-9522
twirtz@hyc.com
MADISON, Wis. – October 10, 2005 – Focus on Energy, the state’s energy efficiency and renewable energy initiative, has announced grant funding available for research projects that study the environmental effects of electrical generation and transmission in Wisconsin. Through its Environmental Research Program, Focus on Energy will award grants to recipients who will address issues that may include the siting of renewable energy facilities, the ecological impacts of transmission line development and the short-term effects of global warming and greenhouse gasses. Only one-year projects will be considered in this funding round.
Any researcher or research organization with a project relevant to Wisconsin is eligible to apply for a grant. Projects must demonstrate a clear and critical need for new or continued research for Wisconsin. Of particular interest are projects that fill gaps in existing knowledge about the environmental effects of electrical energy generation and transmission in Wisconsin and projects that could provide timely support to the goals of the Environmental Research Program. This year the program hopes to grant about $175,000 in funding.
Topics may include:
The Siting of Renewable Energy Facilities
· Wind Generation – Projects that address environmental issues involved in the siting of large wind farms. Specifically, studies that can assist in development of pre- and post-siting management strategies for reducing impact after turbine installation.
· Biomass Generation – Studies on the environmental impacts of using organic matter to generate electricity, including impacts of anaerobic digesters used for manure or sewage management, and issues raised by growing and burning crops used for energy.
· Transmission – Ecological effects of cleared transmission corridors on wildlife activity, mobility and species isolation. Also, studies about invasive species and other habitat changes in corridors.
· Global Warming and Greenhouse Gasses – Studies that focus on short-term effects of greenhouse gas emissions or the environmental impacts of carbon and greenhouse gasses management.
Prospective applicants must submit an Intent to Propose form by November 7, 2005 and final proposals must be received by 12:00 p.m. on November 21, 2005. Forms and additional information can be found on the Focus on Energy Web site at focusonenergy.com or by contacting Ingrid Kelley at 608.238.8276, x136.
About Focus on Energy
Focus on Energy is a public-private partnership offering energy information and services to energy utility customers throughout Wisconsin. The goals of this program are to encourage energy efficiency and use of renewable energy, enhance the environment and ensure the future supply of energy for Wisconsin. Since July 2001, the program has helped Wisconsin’s businesses and residents cut their annual utility bills by more than $86 million – reducing their energy consumption by more than 725 million kilowatt-hours and more than 35 million therms of natural gas. For more information, call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com.
