February 9, 2007

Renewable energy sources such as biomass, wind, and solar are generating a great deal of interest in the United States. The 2007 Michigan Agri-Energy Conference will highlight these renewable energy trends while identifying market barriers, the economics of renewable energy, and examining case studies and success stories. This two-day conference will take place at the Holiday Inn South in Lansing, on March 13-14, 2007.

Kicking off this year's event is a keynote address titled "A Perspective on Future Energy Trends for the United States," given by Michael Schaal, Director of Energy Information Administration in the United States Department of Energy. This will be followed by breakout sessions hosted by technical experts in the fields of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and environmental regulations. Day one will end with a networking reception and an additional opportunity to view the exhibit area, which will feature the latest products and services in the renewable energy arena, as well as informational booths on current research and development from various universities and institutes.

Day two will start off with a keynote address titled "21st Century Energy Plan Report," given by George Stojic of the Michigan Public Service Commission. This will be followed by more breakout sessions and a grant-writing workshop to learn tips for securing Farm Bill, Section 9006 grant dollars.

To register online, go to www.michigan.gov/deqworkshops and click on "Upcoming DEQ Workshops." For registration information, contact: Environmental Assistance Center, 800-662-9278, or email at deq-ead-env-assist@michigan.gov. For content information, contact: Terri Novak, Environmental Science and Services Division, 517-930-3170, or email at novaktl@michigan.gov.

Editor's note: DEQ news releases are available on the department's Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

"Protecting Michigan's Environment, Ensuring Michigan's Future"

Revised February 9, 2007 by Pat Watson