Alternative Energy Luncheon Plans Fall Conference

The National Small Town Alliance (NSTA) recently cohosted a Roundtable Panel Discussion on Alternative Energy with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The luncheon is the first step in a process to increase diversity in the alternative energy production field. The luncheon is also the first step in creating an Alternative Energy Production Consortium that will concentrate on expanding research and development and commercialization opportunities for minority entrepreneurs.

The Alternative Energy Production Consortium will be accomplished in two phases. Phase I was the June 28 luncheon to examine interests, explore possibilities, assign responsibilities and lay the foundation for the overall process. Phase II is a larger gathering in the fall to implement the Phase I recommendations.

NSTA President John Rosenthall, left in upper left photo, welcomed attendees and Bill Kovacs , right in upper left photo, explained the purpose of the meeting. Mr. Kovacs is the Vice President, Environment, Technology & Regulatory Affairs for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Attendees included representatives from the Departments of Energy and Agriculture, universities, Council on Environmental Quality, EPA and the African American Environmentalist Association.