As you well know, Nebraska has vast untapped resources suitable for renewable energy production. In an attempt to ensure individuals are able to utilize these resources if they desire, the need for an association of citizens interested in development of renewable energies in Nebraska is clearly needed.
There are many Nebraskans that have an interest in development of renewable energies within our great state. The goals of this association will not only address the specific needs for development within our state but will also maintain a focus on how the individual can include renewable energy in their daily lives.
Promotion and Awareness
Despite the precarious energy situation we find ourselves in, there are many Nebraskans that are unaware of the true potential presented by renewable energy. It is our belief that to successfully overcome the energy challenges that lay before us, we must think of energy in a different way than in the past. The agricultural raw materials, natural resources and waste streams, so plentiful in our state must all be viewed in terms of their potential as an energy source. A primary goal of this association is to increase awareness regarding the potential of renewable energy in our state. Renewable energy production is often the same as value added agriculture.
Networking
There are many Nebraskans that desire to develop their own particular resources and convert them into usable forms of energy. Most have been frustrated by the lack of information available specific to their goals. However, much work has already been done by individuals acting on their own initiative. A primary goal of this organization is to facilitate networking between individuals engaged in these activities. Tremendous synergies between similar activities might be quickly realized when lessons can be shared among members. Many just need to know who to contact in specific areas of interest. The networking aspect of the association will likely represent the greatest potential impact in development of renewable energies in our state for the individual citizen. Why should a farmer in North Platte experiment with raw soybean oil in his irrigation pump while another in Beatrice has already perfected it? The fact that these activities are non-commercial will enable the results to be readily shared with those across the state.
Infrastructure
Although we do not live in the 'Show Me' state, most Nebraskans like to kick the tires on a system and see it operating before they feel comfortable committing their hard earned resources to it. This is both prudent and wise. To this end, the Nebraska Renewable Energy Association (NeREA) will be involved in development of energy demonstration projects across the state. These projects will be available for interested parties to visit and assess their potential for application in their own lives. For example, the association currently has access to an energy demonstration farm in Northeast Nebraska that has been running on wind and biodiesel for three years. Citizens that have labored to achieve renewable energy goals for themselves are generally eager to share their successes and failure with those having similar interests.
Human Resource Base
There are many experts in various areas of renewable energy spread across our state. To find these individuals often takes an excessive expenditure of time and resources. Another goal of the NREA will be to provide a listing of available resources and individuals in specific technical areas. The horizons of renewable energy are very broad and often the need for specific information can be acute. The NREA will work to supply its members with information and resources available in the specific areas of interest to provide them quick access to the experts.
Education
While we adults have the luxury of choosing to get involved with renewable energies, it is very likely that the youth of Nebraska will not have the same luxury. The future energy profile of Nebraska will look quite different from that of today. The need for students to be educated in this area is a primary mission of this organization. Renewable energy internships are already being formulated by founding members and an LB-90 grant application supporting this development have been approved. Many state and community colleges have expressed great interest in these type programs. We owe it to the youth of Nebraska to educate them as to the full spectrum of energy options, not just those they have inherited from the past. The education and training of youth in our outreach and internship programs will provide the keys to the next generation for meeting the energy challenges that certainly lay before them.
While these may seem like lofty goals, they are realistic and can be achieved with your support and involvement. The NREA will launch its program with a quarterly newsletter and a website with information and links that will support achieving these stated goals. Electronic newsletters, discussion groups, monthly mailings and establishment of the NREA as a hub for individuals needed assistance will soon follow.
Because of the acute needs in this area we are confident of our success in building an organization specific to the needs of Nebraskans which will facilitate growth and development in this area. Much has already been done and much can be learned from previous energy crises. Coupled with current technology and research, we can all work together to ensure energy stability for our children. It is our hope you will join us in this cause.
Mission Statement of the Nebraska Renewable Energy Association(NeREA)
The Nebraska Renewable Energy Association(NeREA) will seek to provide the information, resources and training needed to assist the individual Nebraskan in decisions regarding renewable energy and their personal energy future. The NeREA will serve the citizens of this state in development of all aspects of renewable energy.
Annual membership dues are $25.00 for individuals, $50.00 for business members.
If you would like to become a member, first click here to download the membership application form (PDF).
Once complete, please print the form and mail it along with your payment to:
Nebraska Renewable Energy Association (NeREA) ● 708 North Davis Avenue ● Oakland, NE 68045
Make check payable to Nebraska Renewable Energy Association (NeREA).
You can also join by making your payment on-line.
Individual Membership $25.00
Business Membership $50.00
If you don't want to join, but want to support our renewable energy goals, make a donation by clicking on the button below.
