News

September 12, 2007

NGA Chair Calls for More State Energy Research Funding and Leadership

Chair of the National Governors' Association (NGA), Governor Tim Pawlenty (MN), announced a new initiative today, "Securing a Clean Energy Future." The initiative led by Governor Pawlenty and co-Chaired by Governor Sebelius (KS) is committed to promoting clean energy policies across the nation. It includes a number of workshops, one of which is focused on the need for state leadership and resources in clean energy research and development.

Governor Pawlenty said, "Securing a Clean Energy Future" will promote comprehensive clean energy policies at the state level that:

Use our existing energy resources more wisely through efficiency and conservation;
Promote non-petroleum based fuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel;
Take reasonable steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and
Accelerate the research and development of advanced, clean energy technologies.

The complete text of NGA's announcement is available by clicking here, and a power point used by the Governor Pawlenty in describing the initiative in Washington, DC today can be access by clicking here.

Iowa Energy Independence Office and Power Fund Board Announced

Earlier this month, Governor Chet Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge of Iowa introduced the new Director for the Office of Energy Independence, Roya Stanley (formerly with NREL, a long-time ASERTTI member). In addition members of the newly formed Power Fund Board of Directors and Due Diligence Committee were also introduced. ASERTTI Executive Committee member Floyd Barwig of the Iowa Energy Center is a member of the committee.

Governor Culver said, "I am pleased that the Power Fund is taking form. We have a nationally known Director in Roya Stanley. She has worked for more than 20 years as an ambassador for renewable energy.” Ms. Stanley is returning to Iowa from seven years with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado. Roya said, "I am so honored to lead Iowa's new energy initiative and to staff the Power Fund's Board of Directors. With our experienced board and support from Governor Culver and the Iowa Legislature, the future is brighter than ever. This industry moves fast and the Iowa Power Fund proves that Iowa is serious in maintaining its leadership in renewable energy."