Clean Energy Committee
MINUTES (Approved)
March 14, 2007
Eleanor Buck Wolf Nature Center, Wethersfield, CT
In attendance: Ginny Judson, Paul Lombardo, and Judy Parker. Also in attendance: Christopher Shepard. Absent: Cindy Jacobs.
Ginny called the meeting to order at 6:15 p.m.
- Minutes: Judy moved to approve the 2/16/07 meeting minutes. Paul seconded. Unanimously approved.
- Public Comments: None.
- Energy Conservation Strategies: Ginny reported on efforts to clarify the Town's energy usage at the beginning of the project period and to obtain quarterly progress reports.
Judy reported that the Old Academy and Keeney Center are considering light bulb purchases.
- Connecticut Clean Energy Options Program: Ginny reported there are 111.5 sign-ups to date and asked Christopher to set up the display at the Nature Center.
Discussion of the mercury in fluorescent bulbs requiring they be discarded as household hazardous waste. Christopher will seek more information about the problem and local options for household hazardous waste pick up.
- Renewable Energy Earned: Judy and Ginny reported on their review of municipal buildings' southern exposure and public visibility. Discussion of Mike Turner's and Maurice McCarthy's earlier presentation about the electricity usage at each building and which buildings to ask Connecticut Clean Energy Fund's consultant to assess as viable photovoltaic array installation sites. Tentatively suggest the Community Center, Town Hall, Police Station, Middle School, and High School. Christopher will seek comments from Mike and Mo.
Ginny reviewed the Fund's proposed MOU for the installation. Discussion of items needing possible clarification. Christopher will ask a Fund representative to address during the meeting to be set up regarding the installation.
- Renewable Energy Purchased: Ginny reported that Community Energy did not present to the Town Council's Budget Committee. Instead Community Energy and Sterling Planet have provided written materials. Christopher will request copies for the Committee.
- Community Innovations Grant Program: Ginny reviewed materials provided by Connecticut Clean Energy Fund for grant criteria and a solicitation letter. Ginny will draft a customized solicitation letter.
Discussion of goals for the grant program included to increase the number of residential sign-ups, raise awareness of clean energy issues and options, and engage more of the community in the project. Discussion of additional criteria for applicants included the clarity of their plan and appropriateness of their budget.
Discussion of articulating a moderate message about the importance of renewable or sustainable energy sources and pursuing them in an economically prudent manner.
- Publicity: Ginny shared recent, relevant press clippings. Discussion of edits to the Committee's description on the Town web site. Christopher will follow up.
- Announcements: Will Holden submitted a resignation from the Committee since he no longer is a resident. Discussion of the procedure for recommending possible appointees to the Town Council.
An "Energize Connecticut" session will be held Monday, March 19, 7:00 p.m., at the Police Station. Ginny will attend.
Ginny received correspondence from Rick Willard about his interest in clean energy issues. Judy will follow up.
CL&P has offered to conduct a light bulb fair in Wethersfield. The Town Manager asked the Nature Center to host. Christopher will follow up.
- New Business: None.
Paul moved to adjourn. Judy seconded. Approved unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Next meeting: Wednesday, April 11, time TBD, at the Nature Center.
Respectfully submitted,
Christopher Shepard