WMEAC forums open dialogue about alternative energy issues

The first of four monthly forums presented by the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) will examine what is one of the most discussed alternative energy issues in West Michigan: offshore wind energy development. 

WMEAC and the Center for Sustainability at Aquinas College will present "The What, Where and How of Lake Michigan Wind Turbines: Balancing Sustainable Energy with Lakeside Living and Natural Resources" Wednesday, Nov. 17 at Aquinas College's Donnelly Center at 7 p.m.

The objective of the full series is to create a conversation on a wide variety of alternative energy issues and "prepare West Michigan for what can happen next -- much of which will be up for significant debate," says Daniel Schoonmaker, member services director of WMEAC. 

Schoonmaker is pragmatic about the forums, acknowledging that some issues can be polarizing, but hopes the series will transcend the political debate and create a level of civic engagement where the discussion becomes focused on not whether to move forward with alternative energy, but how businesses, professionals and communities can find a balance while still advancing.

"At some level, alternative energy policies will move forward," he says.

The first forum will feature a panel of area experts. Topics such as reducing regional energy demand and investment in emerging energy technologies like solar, biomass, hydro and nuclear energy will be highlighted in future events.

For more details on the first forum, panelists and future events, you can visit the WMEAC website.

Source:  Daniel Schoonmaker, WMEAC
Writer: John Rumery, Innovation and Jobs Editor