(SOURCE: www.futureenergyjobsact.com/)

With the advent of the recently passed Illinois Future Energy Jobs Act, communities across Illinois are positioning themselves to develop and procure renewable energy.

This week, Kane County leaders can explore ways to support solar-energy development — and learn about free technical assistance opportunities — during a Fox Valley Sustainability Network forum from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday (June 21, 2017) in the Academic & Professional Center, Room 110D, at Waubonsee Community College’s Sugar Grove Campus, 4-S-783 Illinois Route 47.

The forum will be followed by an optional sustainability tour of Waubonsee Community College’s Sugar Grove campus.

The forum will feature presentations from:

Zachary Greene is a Project Manager on the SolSmart program. (CREDIT: SolSmart)

Zach Greene, Program Manager, SolSmart — Get more information about the FREE technical assistance that SolSmart can provide to Fox Valley communities to help them become more “solar ready.”

Liz Doris, Senior Program Manager, National Renewable Energy Laboratory — Learn about NREL’s technical assistance model for moving communities toward 100 percent renewable energy and a new Chicago region collaboration that will equip community teams with resources and planning support to implement community solar projects and road maps toward 100 percent renewable energy procurement.

Mark Pruitt, Principal, The Power Bureau — Hear an overview of the Future Energy Jobs Act and new developments regarding logistics and programs for low-income solar access, community and rooftop solar.

Ken Buckman, Principal, The Power Bureau — The largest solar project in Elgin is currently under construction! Attendees will learn how this 1.2 MW, 1,300+ solar panel project on an industrial building will bring green energy to the local community.

The forum will also feature topic area breakout discussions of specific project implementation related to water, local food, waste, green infrastructure, transportation and economic development.

The event is FREE and open to everyone. However, there is a limited seat capacity. Please RSVP to Taylee Pardi at tpardi@a5inc.com or 312-706-2532. Visit www.foxvalleysustainabilitynetwork.com for updates.

SOURCE: Fox Valley Sustainability Network