PA Governor Creates Renewable Agricultural Energy Council

Renewable Energy Today, Oct 18, 2005

Pennsylvania governor Edward Rendell recently announced the creation of the Renewable Agricultural Energy Council, a body focused on the development and expansion of "agricultural energy industries" in the state.

"As energy costs rise, it is increasingly important for the commonwealth to reduce reliance on non-renewable sources of energy from overseas," said Rendell last week during the council's first meeting at the Capitol Building. "Renewable energy can help us increase our economic and environmental security. The creation of the Renewable Agricultural Energy Council is an important step in this direction."

The council will make recommendations to the governor on policies, procedures, regulations and legislation that would aid in the development of renewable energy; serve as the governor's liaison to the agricultural community on issues affecting the production of renewable energy; serve as a resource to all state entities to ensure that leaders are aware of the issues surrounding renewable energy; and provide guidance and assistance to help the industry establish and develop the infrastructure necessary to deliver renewable energy sources to consumers within Pennsylvania.

"Agricultural energy sources can save the average household $1,200 annually on energy bills," said Rendell. "Such energy sources can also provide an additional source of income for farmers and increase the tax base, benefits that stretch beyond the farm."

Rendell noted that Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture secretary Dennis Wolff and Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection secretary Kathleen McGinty will serve as co-chairs of the council on a rotating yearly basis, with Wolff serving the first term.

Contact: Kate Philips, Office of Governor Rendell, phone 717-783-1116, website http://www.governor.state.pa.us.

(EIN STAFF: 10/12)