March 7, 2012
Distributed Wind 2012 A Note from AWEA Small Wind Chair, Andy Kruse Is distributed wind coming of age? In recent years we have seen both large scale wind and solar PV grow at unprecedented rates. But the better story comes from the customer. Renewables has often had that persona that it's experimental or too expensive and not quite right for "me" but in the last five years that has changed. Renewable energy is part of the new norm. So why is that good for distributed wind and why should you attend DW12? People are not necessarily looking at a single technology as the answer. They are looking at "renewable energy" as the answer whether it is for a remote home, a farm or a telecom tower. Given the right wind conditions, distributed wind still can still deliver the lowest cost of energy of any small scale renewable technology. Mix that with solar and you have a powerful solution to reduce or eliminate diesel fuel consumption or that pesky electric bill. It's this and so much more that you will learn when attending DW12. You will learn about a number of companies that have and are designing, manufacturing, selling and installing distributed wind systems. You will learn about how the industry has developed standards to help ensure you or your customer will get what they pay for, you will learn about new emerging markets and trends within the industry. These are just a few of topics you will take home with you. This is no ordinary event - It's DWEA's first independent meeting of the top players of distributed wind and its being held in our Nation's Capital. The very core of the program is focused on distributed scale wind rather than just being a track. Most importantly, you will understand firsthand why there are so many new markets moving towards distributed wind. Also scheduled for the week is time on Capitol Hill to meet your Representative. If you have read any of the papers lately, every energy technology from oil to wind to solar is there attempting to secure their position in America's energy strategy. If we are not there, we won't be part of the plan. Using our well-seasoned lobbyist, we will meet with a number of Representatives to make sure they know our position in helping secure distributed wind is part of the energy mix. Time is short, this conference is in just a few short weeks and it's also just in time for the Cherry blossoms which will enshroud the city. See you there! Andy Kruse, Southwest Windpower Chair, AWEA Small Wind Committee |