Wind, water and biomass in Ohio's alternative energy future

[Fledermaus]

The largest number of proposals for alternative energy in Ohio represent wind power followed by hydro and biomass, said Art Meyer, a DP&L senior vice president. Many are from out of state.

"Most of the proposals are still in the design or developmental phase," he said.

DP&L does not expect to forge an agreement for renewable power before 2011, but that won't stop new energy conservation initiatives starting in 2009.

Here's what the future looks like.


Bet on conservation first

...A key component in reworking the energy equation is energy conservation, according to DP&L. It would like conservation programs to count toward its state mandate. "We have a pretty aggressive proposal here," Meyer said. "It's something we know we can do and get up and running quickly."

Ratepayers in the Dayton region could see a host of conservation programs in the next two years including rebates for using energy efficient light bulbs, having air conditioning units tuned, and upgrading appliances. Assuming regulatory approval, there would also be programs for weatherizing low-income households and trimming demand. Through conservation, the utility wants to cut energy demand by 25 percent when 2025 rolls around.

Biomass could spell big business


Green Energy's Spratley estimates that Ohio's alternative energy goals could make it the third greenest state in the nation. Ohio has vast, untapped potential in biomass resources from agricultural production.

"Solar and wind is more attractive to the average consumer, but biomass is our biggest renewable resource," he said.

The science is still under development, but biomass energy has the dual potential to reduce greenhouse gases and make use of the nation's gigantic waste stream. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Ohio's farm belt location assures a reliable supply of raw materials.

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