PRESS RELEASE - Public Forum on Wind Energy Held in Mitchell County

Spruce Pine, NC, June 24, 2008 – The North Carolina Wind Working Group sought public input related to wind energy in Western North Carolina. About 80 people showed up Tuesday night at the Sam Center Auditorium, Mayland Community College, expressing their opinions and asking critical questions. The meeting started with an overview of wind energy technology, its potential in the region, and the process of developing a wind farm. A question and answer period followed the presentation and attendees were eager to express their opinions and direct questions toward the panel of seven experts. Small and large-scale developers as well as academia and policy experts made up the panel and were able to provide answers to the wide range of good questions.

Questions by the audience included: The Ridge Law and how it effects wind development in the mountains, small wind for homes and farms, opportunities for incorporating wind technology in school curriculum, employment opportunities in wind energy, community scale wind projects, and land uses compatible with wind energy e.g. public land, mining operations, and potential impact on visual resources.

"I was pleased to see the great turnout at the forum." says Brent Summerville of the Appalachian State University Energy Center. "The rapidly growing wind industry is building new factories, expanding local tax bases and creating new green collar jobs. The public asked all the right questions as we work toward our first responsibly-sited wind project here in the mountains of western North Carolina."

About the NC Wind Working Group

The NC WWG is comprised of over 40 members representing wind industry professionals, environmental organizations, state and federal agencies, regional and local non-profits, and utilities. Two university energy centers are in charge of coordinating the activities of the Wind Working Group – Appalachian State University’s Energy Center and NC State University’s NC Solar Center. Through funding from the State Energy Office and the Wind Powering America program of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the NC WWG’s goals are: a) to develop a clear understanding of existing attitudes on wind development; b) educate the public and key stakeholders, and address their issues; c) generate interest leading to responsible wind development.

For more information contact:
Brent Summerville
ASU Energy Center
www.wind.appstate.edu
wind@appstate.edu
828-262-7333

 

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