News | previous page

DATE: October 1, 2003 
Contact Person: Pamela A. Bonrud, Executive Director 
Steve Wegman, Analyst 
Contact Phone: 605-773-3201

PUC Sponsors Wind Power Meeting in Huron

The future of wind energy will be the topic on October 14-15 in Huron at a statewide wind conference that is free to the public and co-sponsored by the Public Utilities Commission.

"This year the dream of a major wind farm in South Dakota has become a reality in Hyde County," said PUC Chairman Bob Sahr. "We want to capitalize on this momentum and provide practical information to our farmers, ranchers and civic leaders on what to expect next."

The state conference is being held in conjunction with a national wind conference in Huron on the same dates. The conferences will feature both daytime and evening sessions.

"The evening programs will focus on South Dakota-specific issues. We scheduled the sessions at night so that the public could more easily attend," said PUC Vice Chairman Gary Hanson. "There also are excellent wind energy programs during the daytime for those who can make the sessions."

The agenda and registration form are available online at the PUC Web site (www.state.sd.us/puc) or by calling the PUC at 800-332-1782. People can choose to attend the entire conference or just individual sessions. All events are free to the public. Advanced registration is encouraged.

"Thanks to all involved in hosting and sponsoring the conference," said PUC Commissioner Jim Burg. "We're lucky to have a great assortment of nationally and locally recognized speakers on the program."

The conference is hosted by East River Electric Power Co-op and sponsored by the Cooperative Research Network of NRECA, the U.S. Department of Energy's Wind Powering America Program and the South Dakota PUC.

###