Focus on Energy: Presents Wind Energy Workshop

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Robyn Grossman / Tim Wirtz
Hoffman York
414-225-9520 / 414-225-9522
rgrossman@hyc.com
twirtz@hyc.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

– Workshop aids in planning small commercial wind projects –

MADISON, Wis. (March 11, 2005) – This April 4, Focus on Energy, Wisconsin’s energy efficiency and renewable energy initiative, is offering Wisconsin residents the opportunity to learn about the benefits of wind energy systems by presenting the Spring 2005 Wind Energy Workshop. The all day event includes a wind turbine tour and is being held at the Madison Marriott West in Middleton, Wis., 1313 John Q. Hammons Dr.

The event is specifically designed around the needs of rural landowners, farmers, business owners, engineers, local officials and investors, however, it is open to anyone who has some background or interest in wind energy. Attendees will learn the capabilities of wind turbines, as well as the steps they should take to develop a wind energy project and business plan. In addition, they’ll learn how to acquire technical and financial assistance.

Financial Assistance
Focus on Energy’s Renewable Energy Program offers a number of incentives to help finance the installation of wind systems, including grants, Cash-Back Rewards and zero interest loans. Implementation Grants for medium and large wind projects are available for up to $45,000, and Equipment Grants for Non-Profit Organizations are available for up to $65,000 or 50 percent of the project’s cost. Wind system cash-back rewards for smaller systems cover up to 25 percent of the project’s cost up to $35,000 for residential or business site projects. Easy to obtain zero-interest loans are available to help owners of one-or two-family homes finance the installation of wind systems on residential properties.

How to Attend
Those interested in learning more about or attending the Wind Energy Workshop can call 888.476.9534 to receive a copy of the conference brochure, or they can register online at: http://www.peopleware.net/2723. The cost for Wisconsin residents who register on or before March 21 is $65. The fee for Wisconsin residents who register after March 21 or non-Wisconsin registrants who wish to attend the conference is $85.

With energy costs rising at a faster rate than inflation, renewable energy resources – namely wind – make sense. Focus on Energy encourages individuals to take advantage of this workshop and share in their commitment to building a better future by increasing the number of renewable energy systems across Wisconsin.

To learn more about Focus on Energy and its Renewable Energy Program, or to find out if you qualify for financial incentives call 800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com.

About the Focus on Energy Renewable Energy Program
Focus on Energy is a public-private partnership that provides energy efficiency and renewable energy information and services to the state’s energy utility customers. Focus on Energy’s Renewable Energy program seeks to raise awareness, provide training and financing, enhance marketing, promote technical assistance, and support the installation of renewable energy technologies across Wisconsin. Focus on Energy provides applications, with full program details, at 800.762.7077 or at focusonenergy.com.