The Washington Technology Center, who co-hosted the forum with the Northwest Energy Technology Collaborative, has been tasked by the legislature to lead the development of a renewable energy strategy for the state of Washington. They organized the Renewable Energy Forum as a brainstorming session to invite input to the process.

More than 100 attendees crowded into the small conference hall for an opportunity to play a role in developing this strategy. They represented private companies, utilities, nonprofits, government and supporting organizations.

After some brief introductory comments, WTC chair Lee Cheatham asked the audience to divide into five breakout sessions. Each group discussed the opportunities and obstacles for Washington's development as a leader in energy efficiency and renewable energy. The breakout facilitators then presented their groups' ideas to the forum. Cheatham, together with Tony Usibelli of the Washington State Office of Community, Trade and Economic Development, guided the group through a final discussion to synthesize the five presentations.

Common themes

There were some common themes throughout the forum. Attendees stressed the need for Washington to compete effectively with other states to attract industry and to secure federal funds. That will require a unified strategy and a reconciliation of policies. Incentive programs to encourage renewable energy development should be consistent and long-term.

Some groups emphasized the need for state support in funding demonstration projects and pilots to help startup businesses commercialize their technologies. Education in science at all levels also emerged as a priority.

Report to lawmakers

WTC and NWETC will summarize the forum's findings and deliver their report to the State Senate Committee on Natural Resources, Energy and Water before the start of the next legislative session. Senator Fraser is the ranking minority member of that committee.