Lately we often hear the phrase renewable energy or green energy and the favorable impact these alternative energy sources have upon the environment. However, we’re now hearing about sustainable energy and although the terminology is new, the meaning is about the same.  Sustainable energy’s goal is to meet current consumer requirements without compromising future needs. Further, sustainable energy distinguishes itself as the ability of energy sources to continue providing energy. As with renewable energy, sustainable energy typically includes wind, solar, geothermal and bio-materials power.  Southern Idaho is poised to produce all of these power sources and meet consumer demands for energy.

It wasn’t too long ago that the wind energy projects near Mountain Home, Hagerman and Bell Rapids were constructed. Closer to home, it was just a few years ago that Windland Corporation began considering their wind project for Cotterel Mountain above Albion validating our wind resource.  Currently, we’ve probably all noticed the wind tower construction projects underway here In Mini-Cassia. And so it blows. However, not only do these projects provide energy, they provide additional economic benefits in the communities where they’re located. Job creation is just one ancillary benefit with any large construction project and as we’ve all become aware, more dollars are spent as they’re earned stimulating the local economy.

Our partner, the Southern Idaho Economic Development Organization, has recognized sustainable energy as an increasingly important sector of Idaho’s economy. SIEDO, along with the College of Southern Idaho and the Idaho National Laboratory (INL)  have together organized the Sustainable Energy Conference 2010-Powering Idaho’s Future. This conference will feature panel discussions focused on technology, market, business strategies as they relate to wind, solar, biomass, hydro and geothermal energy power. This conference will provide an opportunity to gain local, state and national perspectives on sustainable energy and learn how to capitalize on the resources and prospects in Idaho.

Economic development is happening all around us and we’re fortunate to live in a place where many people are working to improve our economy. Be positive about what we have and where we live and spread the word.

Dave Westfall

Vice-chair, MCEDC