We all know the issues, the problems and the bleak reality of our nation’s dependence on foreign fuel sources. On a level that hits very close to home, Long Island’s energy needs seem insatiable. Electric bills are increasing and the price of gas for cars is sky-rocketing. How can resourceful, intelligent, creative, capitalistic Long Islanders, empower ourselves to become part of the “power” solution, rather than part of the problem? As a region, how can we successfully create a business environment that will not only encourage and nurture the development of an alternative energy industry hub to benefit the nation, but will also provide a partial solution to another LI challenge — keeping our kids here— by providing job opportunities for our children and grandchildren? Large energy users, entrepreneurs, educators, potential investors, bankers, economic development professionals and other interested business executives attended a seminar at Hauppauge Industrial Association’s (HIA) 19th Annual Business Trade Show and Conference to learn how “Alternative Energy is Long Island’s Business.” This two-hour program, chaired by David Winchester of Invision and sponsored by NYSERDA, Bank of America, HDR, Paragon Electric and The Solar Center, was part of a day filled with opportunities to turn handshakes into business for hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of attendees. In a video welcome address, Congressman Steve Israel set the tone of the energy seminar by referring to his innovative “Next Generation Energy Security Initiative” which focuses on collaboration and new business opportunities for Long Island. This important theme was emphasized and expanded upon by the panel. Foye discussed Governor Spitzer’s focus on controlling energy demand and increasing supply in an environmentally sound way. The state’s goal is to reduce demand 15% by 2015. New York State proposes incentives for solar panels, promotes green buildings, supports increasing the infrastructure with clean, no emission power plants and commercializing alternative energy technologies such as wind, solar power and fuel cells. By investing $35 million for an Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center (AERTC) at Stony Brook University, the state has created a focal point for the many energy-related research and development projects currently underway on Long Island. Stony Brook University’s commitment to improving energy efficiency, energy conservation and the development of new energy technologies was outlined by Dr. Shamash. Research programs are focused on how to leverage current resources and use less fossil fuel until sufficient alternatives become readily available. KeySpan is working with industry and academia to research and develop alternative energy sources to reduce its customer’s energy bills, support reliable, efficient clean power by reducing carbon dioxide emissions and create alternative-energy related jobs. Catell discussed KeySpan’s initiatives for supporting alternative energy sources such as wind, tidal power, fuel cells, photo-voltaic power and micro turbines. Energy research, focused on weaning the US from imported oil in an environmentally-safe manner is actively being researched at Brookhaven National Lab. BNL is focused on several goals which were explained by Dr. James — a bio fuel goal to develop cost effective alternative energy sources (eg. converting poultry waste into fuel), a solar energy goal to research sun power and a nuclear goal to reduce or eliminate nuclear waste. BNL is also studying safe levels of greenhouse gases and the effects of global warming. Germano explained that LIPA is responding to Long Island’s energy needs by developing new technologies to create a dynamic smart grid with advanced communication capabilities for the reliable, cost effective, environmentally safe transmission and distribution of electricity to its customers. Although LIPA is still challenged with the reality of obsolete equipment, it is working to develop an integrated electric infrastructure and alternative power sources from fuel cells, wind and photovoltaic energy. All of the panelists emphasized the commercialization possibilities of their research projects and the assistance available to Long Island companies focused on this goal including technical assistance, grants, subsidies, business incubators, IEP program and rate reduction incentives for energy conservation practices. Congressman Israel is actively partnering with Long Island businesses, academia, government and research institutions to transform Long Island into a center for alternative energy research and development. New York State, Stony Brook University, Brookhaven National Lab, LIPA and KeySpan are partnering with each other and with industry, business and community organizations and educational institutions to develop business opportunities for Long Island companies, create jobs and provide the economic development climate and tools needed to keep our region strong. Marci Tublisky was executive director of HIA (Hauppauge Industrial Association) for 15 years. She worked with hundreds of manufacturers, distributors, technology companies and service providers to address business issues including those related to energy, sewers, transportation, international trade, workforce training, security, emergency medical services and the environment.
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