San Antonio Clean Technology Forum Mike's Blog

Mayor Castro's Major SA 2020 Event Saturday, May 19, 2012 8:30am- 12 noon

Mike Burke — Wed, 16 May 2012 01:17:54 GMT

You are invited to Mayor Castro’s very special event this coming Saturday. Please register and get there early as 1200+ attendees are expected.

Register: http://sa2020.eventbrite.com/?utm_source=SA+2020+List&utm_campaign=ff89f1b698-SA2020_Find_Your_Passion4_23_2012&utm_medium=email

The Mission Verde Alliance is honored to have been selected by the City of San Antonio to be the Lead for implementing the Environmental Sustainably initiative of SA 2020.

A main challenge all communities face in the 21^st Century is managing and maintaining a balance between rapid economic growth and protecting our environment for future generations in a sustainable manner. Sustainability promotes economic growth by lowering energy costs, spurring innovation in clean technologies, protecting the environment, and creating jobs. Last year, thousands of San Antonians came together, expressed their thoughts, and defined what they want San Antonio to be in the year 2020. SA 2020 is the binding force and catalyst for San Antonio’s future.

The 2020 vision for Environmental Sustainability is that San Antonio is recognized as a respectful steward of its natural resources and a model for responsible development. The strategy is based on an integrated approach that establishes a green economy and focuses on three key areas – water, energy, and land. Performance measurements include:

- Improving air quality

- Reducing water and energy usage

- Doubling the number of green jobs

- Increasing energy generation from renewable sources

- Reducing the amount of material going into landfills

- Increasing the city’s tree canopy

- Advocating low impact development (LID)

The Mission Verde Alliance is proud to have the following partners working with us to achieve the SA 2020 Environmental Sustainability initiative:

· Alamo Area Council of Governments (AACOG)

· Alamo Forest Partnership

· Build San Antonio Green (BSAG)

· Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance

· Keep San Antonio Beautiful

· San Antonio Clean Energy Incubator (SACEI)

· San Antonio River Authority (SARA)

· Solar San Antonio

International Interest in San Antonio’s New Energy Economy

Mike Burke — Wed, 16 May 2012 01:22:50 GMT

The Mission Verde Alliance/ SA Clean Tech Forum/ World Affairs Council of San Antonio/ City of San Antonio Collaborative Forum on May 8 featuring Doyle Beneby and Gregory Barker UK Minister of Energy and Climate Change turned out to be a resounding success.

Messrs. Beneby and Barker did an excellent job with their presentations as well as their performance in a very spirited Q&A session.

Many thanks to our 27 sponsors (see below) and over 300 attendees.

Minister Barker and the business delegates travelling with him heaped praise on San Antonio’s hospitality, collaboration and incredible progress in creating a New Energy Economy.

And I thought you would like to know that Doyle Beneby has started a blog and below are his are his comments re: our Forum.

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Doyle’s Beneby’s Blog May 9, 2012

International Interest in San Antonio’s New Energy Economy

As the New Energy Economy develops, it is always a pleasure to share San Antonio's progress in becoming a leader in the areas of clean technology and renewable energy. This week, the City of San Antonio hosted a visit from U.K. Minister of Energy and Climate Change, Gregory Barker, who leads U.K. policy on public sector energy efficiency, national and international climate change, energy innovation, and green jobs and skills. The delegation of clean energy-related British companies that came with him have goals that align with San Antonio’s initiatives to develop cost-effective reduction of carbon emissions.

The minister's delegation visited CPS Energy's 14MW Blue Wing Solar Farm, which is San Antonio's first solar farm and the largest solar array in Texas (until Friday when we dedicate the new 19.8MW SunEdison facility at Dos Rios). This was followed by Mr. Barker's keynote address at a luncheon hosted by the World Affairs Council of San Antonio and Mission Verde Alliance, on "Energy Independence through Efficiency." I had the pleasure of sharing the podium with the minister, addressing CPS Energy's plan to clean the air by 2020 through large-scale commercial projects generated by renewable energy accompanied by our demand reduction initiatives (cheapest and cleanest generation source, through Consert and STEP ) and most importantly the early deactivation of two of our older coal plants by 2018 (to be replaced with power from our cheaper/cleaner natural gas plant Rio Nogales).

I also shared my thoughts on the effectiveness of our unique municipal structure and discussed how Vision 2020 aligns with Mayor Castro's SA2020 and how with the support of our City Manager Sheryl Sculley we have been able to position San Antonio as a leader in the New Energy Economy.

It is obvious that San Antonio is being viewed as a model community for sustainability, not only for our own country but for those around the world. At CPS Energy, it is our pleasure to have discussions with world leaders in energy and climate change, like Barker and his delegation. Thank you to everyone who helped make yesterday's event a success.

https://blog.cpsenergy.com/cpsblog/doylebeneby/entry/international_interest_in_the_new1

GOLD SPONSORS

Bank of America

Bracewell & Giuliani

Port San Antonio

SILVER SPONSORS

Atkins

Greg Muenster

CPS Energy

Jackson – Stanco Morgan Stanley Smith Marney

Jackson Walker

Nexolon

NADBank

Nexus Alpha

NuStar Energy

Pape Dawson

OCO Solar

Steves Doors

Texas Capital Bank

US Green Building Council – Balcones & Central Texas Chapter

BRONZE SPONSORS

Consert Inc.

M&M Weatherization

Southwest Research Institute

BENEFACTORS

HEB

Lucie Frost/ Frost Bank

Solejen Systems

UTSA

UIW

USAA

And a special thanks to Valero Corporation for sponsoring the evening reception

May 12: Build SA Green's Green Home Tour: April 24: UIW Solar House; April 27: Austin Sirra Club Water Conference

Mike Burke — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 21:45:53 GMT

Build,is proud to announce the “Green Tour of Homes and Fair”, Saturday May 12^th, a first of its kind event in San Antonio.

Taking place in one of San Antonio’s hippest areas – Southtown - this event will feature both a tour of green certified homes, and a public fair. The tour of homes will take place in the Lavaca and King William neighborhoods, and the public fair feature booths from vendors showcasing a variety of energy and water efficiency products and services, and will also include live entertainment on a solar-powered stage.

The Fair will be held on Cesar Chavez across from the Institute of Texan Cultures and the Tower of Americas. The Fair is free and open to the public.

Booth slots are limited, and are on a “first respond” basis, so please contact us as soon as possible or visit our websitehttp://www.buildsagreen.org/green-home-tour-fair/ to register.

Please consider being having a booth at this unique fair!

http://www.uiw.edu/houseofcards/solarhousecontactus.html

R.S.V.P. to (210) 829-6001

*Cardinals Achieve Renewable Design with Solar

www.uiw.edu/houseofcards

You are invited to a

Grand Opening Ceremony for the

University of the Incarnate Word’s

Solar House (House of C.A.R.D.S.*)

Tuesday, April 24, 2012 2 p.m.

4301 Broadway

(between the McDermott Convocation Center and Barshop Natatorium)

Alison F. Whittemore, Ph.D.

Chair, Department of Engineering and Physics

School of Mathematics, Science, and Engineering

The University of the Incarnate Word

whittemo@uiwtx.edu

www.uiw.edu/houseofcards

International Water Expert to Highlight Sierra Club Water Conference

-- Statewide Gathering Set for April 27 in Austin

(Austin)undefinedBrian Richter, an international authority on river conservation and the director of The Nature Conservancy’s Global Freshwater Program, will be the keynote speaker for a statewide water conference being held by the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club in Austin on Friday, April 27. The “Water for People and the Environment” conference will explore some of the key ways in which Texas may meet its water challenges through more efficient and effective management of the state’s water resources. Major topics covered will be drought and drought response, innovative water conservation measures, and balancing human and environmental needs in water reuse projects.

Keynote speaker Richter heads a Nature Conservancy program that promotes sustainable water management with governments, businesses, and local communities. He has consulted on more than 120 river projects worldwide, focusing on the challenge of sustaining healthy rivers and lakes while meeting human needs forwater and energy. Richter is the co-author (with water policy expert Sandra Postel) of the book Rivers for Life: Managing Water for People and Nature. He will bring his knowledge and experience from around the world to address Texas water challenges.

Conference sessions will focus on how Texas state agencies, regional water authorities, and communities may enhance drought management and response, water conservation, water reuse, and other tools to assure that Texas has adequate water resources to sustain our people and the rivers, wetlands, and coastal bays and estuaries critical to the state’s economy as well as its ecology. Speakers will include experts from the Texas Water Development Board, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, San Antonio Water System, Alliance for Water Efficiency, Texas Water Foundation, Lower Colorado River Authority, and National Wildlife Federation.

The conference will be held at the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center on The University of Texas at Austin campus. Registration and check-in for the conference will be from 8 to 9 AM on Friday, April 27. Conference sessions will run from 9 to 4 PM. Lunch and materials are covered in the registration fee for attendees. For more information or to register for the conference, go to http://action.sierraclub.org/site/Calendar?id=161061&view=Detail

Alamo Sierra Club Presents Tad Patzek On Production of Oil and Coal

Mike Burke — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 01:25:34 GMT

Alamo Sierra Club Presents Tad Patzek On Production of Oil and Coal

Witte Museum auditorium 3801 Broadway Free and open to the public

Tuesday, April 17, 2012 6:30 pm (contributed by Lanny Sinkin)

Tadeusz (Tad) Patzek is the Lois K. and Richard D. Folger Leadership Professor and Chairman of the Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering Department at The University of Texas at Austin. He also holds the Cockrell Family Regents Chair #11. Between 1990 and 2008, he was a Professor of Geoengineering at the University of California, Berkeley. Prior to joining Berkeley, he was a researcher at Shell Development, a unique research company managed for 20 years by M. King Hubbert of the Hubbert peaks.

More recently, Patzek has engaged in the studies of complex systems, focusing on the ultra deepwater offshore operations. He briefed Congress on the BP Deepwater Horizon well disaster in the Gulf, and was a frequent guest on NPR, ABC, BBC, CNN, and CBS programs. In January 2011, Patzek became a member of the Ocean Energy Safety Advisory Committee for the Department of Interior's Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE). He recently co-wrote a popular book with Joseph Tainter, "Drilling Down: The Gulf Debacle and our Energy Dilemma."

For the last four years, Patzek’s research has emphasized the use of unconventional natural gas as a fuel bridge to the possible new energy supply schemes for the U.S. He appeared in the Haynesville Shale documentary. Currently, Patzek teaches courses in petroleum engineering, hydrology, ecology and energy supply, computer science, and mathematical modeling of earth systems. Patzek is a coauthor of over 200 papers and reports, and is writing five other books.

Free parking museum garage Tuleta and Avenue B

An important luncheon forum May 8 at the Pearl featuring Doyle Beneby & UK Minister of Energy Gregory Barker

Mike Burke — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:48:52 GMT

Joint Venture Forum of World Affairs Council of SA, SA Clean Tech Forum & Mission Verde Alliance

May 8, 2012

11:15am -1:00pm PearlStable

11:15a Registration 11:30a Networking

11:50a Lunch Program Begins 1:00p Adjourn promptly

Doyle Beneby – CEO, CPS Energy: “An update on the plans and priorities for the San Antonio region’s New Energy Economy”

Gregory Barker – UK Minister of State, Dept. of Energy and Climate Change: “Energy Independence through Efficiency.”

At Networking Reception meet key individuals representing an impressive group of UK sustainable focused enterprises

Table of eight sponsorship levels:

Gold $2,000 Recognition at the Podium plus below

Silver $1,000 Logo on SA Clean Tech and World Affairs Council Web Sites plus below

Bronze $750 Logo on Display Posters in Foyer; Logo on Screen; Logo in program

Table of Eight $500 Name in the Program

For table sponsorship please contact Mike Burke at:burke_michael@sbcglobal.net or 210-269-7962

This event will sell-out early.

Individuals $45 (Prices increases to $60 on April 27, 2010 Registration athttp://www.wacofsa.org/ http://www.wacofsa.org/events/calendar-of-events?task=view_event&event_id=35

We are pleased to report that Mayor Julian Castro and his staff have been successful in convincing the UK Minister of State, Department of Energy and Climate Change, Greg Barker and a delegation of several sustainable/ clean energy UK businesses to include San Antonio on their trip to the US early in May 2012. (They will also visit Atlanta and Houston.)

The trip addresses issues of great importance to the Coalition’s prosperity agenda:

•1. Strengthening the UK-US trade relationship

•2. Building the economic and business case for transitioning to a low-carbon economy

The mission intends to use leading examples of UK sustainable business to carry the message on this critical issue, showing the compatibility of green and growth, as well as offering opportunities for companies to connect with new or existing business partners.

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

Jackson-Stanco - Morgan Stanley/ Smith Barney

SAWS goes for salt water; CPS natural gas deal has big benefits

Mike Burke — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 03:35:46 GMT

SAWS has added another impressive initiative to it’s portfolio. SAWS is widely recognized for leading the nation in it’s top quality water conservation and water reuse programs. SAWS is the first water utility in the nation to turn sewage sludge into clean natural gas. And now SAWS is launching the largest brackish desalination project in the nation.

And Steve Clouse reports that the merging of Bexar Met is going much better than anticipated.

And finally last but certainly not least, SAWS had all their employees engage in a midnight water dance at midnight at a location not to be disclosed deep in the Hill country. They begged the rain gods to be kind to our region in March 2012. And WOW, another SAWS initiative leading to a huge success.

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SAWS goes for salt water

Colin McDonald SA Express News March 27, 2012

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SAWS kick off water desalination projects

SA Business Journal James Aldridge March 27, 2012

http://us.mg205.mail.yahoo.com/dc/launch?.partner=sbc&.gx=1&.rand=7npl9cnj0hah5

San Antonio tech firms have chance to compete for $80 million in early-stage financing

http://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/news/2012/03/27/san-antonio-tech-firms-have-chance-to.html?ana=handmark

CPS natural gas deal has big benefits

Express News Editorial

Air quality and the Eagle Ford; Valero, Chesapeake NGV Stations; ERCOT Wind Power Generation Record Shattered Twice

Mike Burke — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 02:26:21 GMT

Air quality and the Eagle Ford: a Q&A with Peter Bella, AACOG natural resources director

By Michael Barajas SA Current 3.21.12

Air quality and the Eagle Ford: a Q&A with Peter Bella, AACOG natural resources director

http://sacurrent.com/news/air-quality-and-the-eagle-ford-a-q-a-with-peter-bella-aacog-natural-resources-director-1.1288355

Report: Valero, Chesapeake weighing natural-gas fueling stations

Valero Energy Corp. and Chesapeake Energy are looking into the possibility of building out a network of natural-gas fueling stations between Houston, Dallas and San Antonio

San Antonio Business Journal March 23, 2012 (Contributed by Tim Farrell)

Valero Energy Corp. and are considering the possibility of developing a network of natural-gas fueling stations between Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.

According to several

http://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/news/2012/03/23/report-valero-chesapeake-weighing.html?ana=handmark

Thanks in Part to Technology, ERCOT Wind Power Generation Record Shattered Twice

By Carl Levesque, AWEA 3.21.12 Contributed by Scott Storment

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The grid operator for most of Texas broke its wind power generation record twice this week. But what's almost as notable is what was behind the recordundefinedbesides the wind, that is.

Wind output reached 7,599 MW at 8:41 p.m., last Wednesday, exceeding the 7,403 MW record from the previous day by 196 MW and meeting a full 22 percent of the system’s electricity demand. At the time of Wednesday’s record, total system load was 34,318 MW. Prior to March 6, the record for wind output in ERCOT was 7,400 MW, recorded on Oct. 7, 2011. 7,599 MW is enough to fully supply about 6 million typical American homes at average usage levels.

As impressive as all those numbers are, however, just as noteworthy is how improved grid operating procedures were, in part, behind the record-setting generation.

Complete article at: http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2012/03/thanks-in-part-to-technology-ercot-wind-power-generation-record-shattered-twice?cmpid=WindNL-Thursday-March22-2012

Impact ofCurtailment

By Jonathan Cheszes, Navigant 3.20.12 (Contributed by Scott Storment)

The increase in utility scale wind development across North America has and continues to change the energy supply mix in many jurisdictions. Driven primarily by state-level renewable portfolio standard (RPS) requirements and clean air regulation, state and provincial supply mixes once dominated by coal, hydro nuclear and natural gas are now becoming more diverse. Intermittent generation sources – once a small component of total capacity – are becoming substantial. And, as a result, system operators have had to periodically curtail these intermittent generators in order to maintain system balance and reliability.

A 2010 study conducted for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) revealed that 2009 wind generation curtailment varied significantly by jurisdiction undefined ranging from as low as 1 percent in the Midwest Transmission System Operator’s (MISO) control area to as high as 16 percent and 10 percent in Texas and Alberta, Canada respectively. These higher levels of curtailment can have a significant impact on a wind generator’s economics.

Complete article: http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2012/03/impact-of-curtailment-on-wind-economics?cmpid=WindNL-Thursday-March22-2012

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CPS ENERGY’S BENEBY HONORED FOR SUSTAINABILITY AIMS

Mike Burke — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 20:52:42 GMT

CPS ENERGY’S BENEBY HONORED FOR SUSTAINABILITY AIMS

Sierra Club notes coal phase-out, solar investments

Noting his “remarkable improvements” to environmental quality, the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club is honoring CPS Energy’s Doyle Beneby with its Special Service Award for 2011.

Beneby, president and CEO of San Antonio’s municipal energy utility, which has signed seven clean energy agreements as part of its Vision 2020 plan to transition from primarily traditional power generation to a more diverse portfolio including competitively priced clean energy.

CPS recently announced plans to deactivate its Deely Coal units by 2018 while expanding sustainable energy with plans for a 400-megawatt solar energy project. The company already has 44 megawatts of solar energy under contract.

SMART GRID NEWSLETTER
The Smart Grid -- the application of digital technology to the electric power infrastructure. (Contributed by Peter Bella)

What happens when customers stop needing electricity? CA is about to find out
California wants to make all new residential construction net zero by 2020. That's right - every new home built after 2020 must produce more power than it uses over the course of a year. Utilities will still be needed after the transition - but what will that business model look like? That's our Tuesday Topic this week; we're hoping you'll share some insights.

http://www.smartgridnewstalk.com/showthread.php/393-What-happens-when-customers-stop-needing-electricity?p=1061#post1061

Overturning the 8 biggest myths in renewable energy today
Misconception and myth hang over the entirety of the U.S. energy sector. But with renewable energy equally likely to get bogged down in political wrangling over subsidy levels and climate change, getting to the truth remains a particular challenge. Peter Gardett of AOL Energy teams with a senior manager from Ernst & Young to bust some of the most entrenched myths in the renewables space.

http://www.smartgridnews.com/artman/publish/Technologies_DG_Renewables/Overturning-the-8-biOverturning-the-8-biggest-myths-in-renewable-energy-todayggest-myths-in-renewable-energy-today-4587.html?utm_medium=email&utm_source=Act-On+Software&utm_content=email&utm_campaign=What%20happens%20when%20customers%20stop%20needing%20electricity%3F&utm_term=T-Overturning%20the%208%20biggest%20myths%20in%20renewable%20energy%20today&cm_mmc=Act-On%20Software-_-email-_-What%20happens%20when%20customers%20stop%20needing%20electricity%3F-_-T-Overturning%20the%208%20biggest%20myths%20in%20renewable%20energy%20today

Toronto startup goes underwater with compressed air energy storage
A Toronto startup is testing underwater compressed air energy storage with big yellow balloon-like "accumulators" tethered to the bottom of Lake Ontario. Calling it a low-cost, scalable solution for urban centers, Hydrostor will partner with Toronto Hydro to demonstrate its intriguing approach this summer. Click for details, including a short animated video highlighting the technology.

http://www.smartgridnews.com/artman/publish/Technologies_Storage/Toronto-startup-goes-underwater-with-compressed-air-energy-storage-4583.html?utm_medium=email&utm_source=Act-On+Software&utm_content=email&utm_campaign=What%20happens%20when%20customers%20stop%20needing%20electricity%3F&utm_term=T-Toronto%20startup%20goes%20underwater%20with%20compressed%20air%20energy%20storage&cm_mmc=Act-On%20Software-_-email-_-What%20happens%20when%20customers%20stop%20needing%20electricity%3F-_-T-Toronto%20startup%20goes%20underwater%20with%20compressed%20air%20energy%20storage

Challenge of Low-Cost Natural Gas; Tougher rules on fracking; Top Ten US Solar Stats From 2011

Mike Burke — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 02:33:44 GMT

Clean Energy and the Challenge of Low-Cost Natural Gas

Ron Pernick, Mg Dir, Clean Edge 3.12.12 (Contributed by Scott Storment)

There is a strong case for an energy future that moves beyond highly polluting coal and extremely volatile nuclear power, and towards a marriage of efficiency/smart grid, renewables, and natural gas. But in a world of low-cost natural gas, currently at less than $2.50 per million BTU in the U.S. (it's closer to six times that amount, or $15, in Europe and Asia), how can solar, wind, and other clean energy sources compete? Does low-cost natural gas, which could last for years or decades in the U.S., mean the end of clean tech as we know it?

Complete article at: http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2012/03/clean-energy-and-the-challenge-of-low-cost-natural-gas?cmpid=WNL-Friday-March16-2012

EPA eyes tougher rules on fracking

Puneet Kollipara SA Business Journal 3.15.12 (Contributed Scott Storment)

Updated 08:29 p.m., Thursday, March 15, 2012

WASHINGTON undefined Proposed federal regulations on emissions from oil and gas production could cause unconventional drilling operations such as fracking to drop over the next several years, theAmerican Petroleum Institute said.

The Washington-based trade group cited insufficient emission-cutting equipment and said that, unless the industry is given more time and more flexibility to meet the rules, drilling involving hydraulic fracturing could be reduced by 31 percent to 52 percent between 2012 and 2015.

The regulations would represent the first federal air standards for wells that are hydraulically fractured by injecting water, sand and some chemicals deep underground to release natural gas and oil from dense rock. The practice has been linked to increased smog in some Western states, including Texas. The process is being used in the Eagle Ford Shale in South Texas.

A report prepared for API by the research firm Advanced Resources International said companies would have to cut the number of wells they drill to meet the proposed Environmental Protection Agency regulations.

Obtaining and installing the equipment also would impose additional costs on drilling, the report says. While some companies already are cutting emissions, API said, a “one-size-fits-all” approach could cause problems for some companies.

Complete article at: http://www.mysanantonio.com/business/article/EPA-eyes-tougher-rules-on-fracking-3410769.php#ixzz1pIZCkfKs

Top Ten US Solar Stats From 2011

2011 was a historic year for solar in the U.S. We count down the most meaningful stats from U.S. solar’s record year.

GREENTECH SOLARSTAFF 3.12.12 (CONTRIBUTED BY SCOTT STORMENT)

http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/top-ten-us-solar-stats-from-2011/

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West Coast leaders eye 1 million new clean jobs by 2020

By Christina Williams Sustainable Business Oregon 3.14.12

(Contributed by Brent Lane)

The Pacific Coast Collaborative, a group of government leaders from Oregon, Washington, California and British Columbia, gathered in Vancouver, British Columbia this week to agree to a plan that would create 1 million so-called clean economy jobs by 2020.

The group commissioned a study, released Tuesday, to put a value the economic contributions made by the three-state, one-province region's clean economy sector. The study, completed by Canadian firm Globe Advisors and The Center for Climate Strategies in Washington, D.C., found that the sector was worth $47 billion in 2010 and could grow to $2.3 trillion by 2020.

The report comes with an action plan, outlining steps each jurisdiction should take to support the clean-sector economic growth including retrofitting government-owned buildings for better efficiency and renewable energy, purchasing alternative-fuel vehicles for government fleets, and setting clean energy policies that encourage the private sector to take similar steps.

Complete article at: http://www.sustainablebusinessoregon.com/articles/2012/03/west-coast-leaders-eye-1-million-new.html?ana=e_pft

TPR's "Revenge of the Electric Car" March 27 7:00pm

Mike Burke — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 04:54:58 GMT

Viable Alternatives: 'Revenge of the Electric Car' Documentary Screening

Texas Public Radio is hosting a free screening of "Revenge of the Electric Car," director Chris Paine's follow-up to his 2006 documentary "Who Killed the Electric Car?"

Enjoy the critically-acclaimed film FREE OF CHARGE, and learn about viable alternative fuel technologies as we host a conversation between the community, our sponsors, GM and Chesapeake Energy, and our partners, CPS Energy and AACOG, about how alternative fuel vehicles are an increasingly accessible option for San Antonio drivers.

Confirmed guests include:

Chris Ashcraft, San Antonio Clean Cities Coordinator, AACOG
Ashcraft will share information about the Alamo Area Clean Cities Coalition, a voluntary, public/private partnership that works to advance the region's economic development, energy security, and environmental and public health by promoting policies and practices that reduce foreign petroleum consumption in transportation and replace it with American-made energy. The program offers resources and incentives for businesses and consumers who are seeking sustainable driving solutions.

Elaina Ball, Vice-President, Technical Services and Energy Solutions, CPS Energy
Ball will discuss how CPS Energy is identifying opportunities and taking action to make sustainable vehicles a more convenient alternative for San Antonio drivers, including the utilities recently unveiled electric vehicle charging stations.

Craig Eppling, Communications and Public Relations Manager, GM (South Central Region)
Eppling will share on how GM's growing commitment to bring sustainable vehicles to the consumer marketplace, including their electric vehicle the Chevy Volt, as well as GM vehicles that run on CNG and biofuels.

Chip Haass, Chesapeake Energy
Haynes will share information about compressed natural gas as an alternative fuel solution, and detail CNG vehicles currently on the marketplace, as well as available options to convert petroleum-fueled vehicles into ones that can operate on CNG.

When:

Tuesday, March 27, 2012
7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Where:

LOL Comedy Club
618 N.W. Loop 410, Suite 312
San Antonio, TX 78216

Park North Entertainment Complex (Loop 410 between Blanco and San Pedro)

Reservations:

Admission is FREE OF CHARGE
(Reservations required, reserve online or call (800) 622-8977)

http://www.tpr.org/articles/2012/03/revengeoftheelectriccar.html

Climate change made the drought worse, scientists say

Mike Burke — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 04:52:02 GMT

Climate change made the drought worse, scientists say

By Colin McDonald SA Expresss News March 5, 2012

Flowing, for now: Bret Barnett, who owns property along the Guadalupe River, walks in late February in an area upstream from Canyon Lake where the river stopped flowing last year. Photo:Tom Reel

Several scientists at NASA and the state climatologist say the record-setting heat and drought of last summer in Texas was made worse by climate change.

More than just providing bragging rights that Texas now holds the record for hottest summer ever recorded in the United States, that conclusion adds another layer of uncertainty for water planners.

James Hansen of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies and Columbia University's Earth Institute titled his still unpublished climate analysis, “Perceptions of Climate Change: The New Climate Dice.”

“We conclude that extreme heat waves, such as that in Texas and Oklahoma in 2011 and Moscow in 2010, were ‘caused' by global warming, because their likelihood was negligible prior to the recent rapid global warming,” he wrote in the paper that is still undergoing peer review. “We can say with a high degree of confidence that these extreme anomalies were a consequence of global warming.”

Some water utilities across the state are still struggling to meet demand because of the drought, which set the record for a single year. But many more are not ready for a repeat of the drought of the 1950s, which lasted seven years and is considered the worst long-term one on record. Adding climate change on top of that will make planning more difficult, as high temperatures mean more evaporation and less water going into rivers, reservoirs and aquifers

Read more:http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/environment/article/Droughts-water-woes-expected-to-intensify-3381513.php#ixzz1oHP3N8Pk

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Muzzling of Eagle Ford boom feared

By Vicki Vaughan SA Express News March 2, 2012

Drilling rigs like this one in McMullen county, Texas near Tilden are becoming a common sight. Drilling companies are now drilling into the Eagle Ford shale formation south of San Antonio using deep wells that employ a process called hydraulic fracturing that produces dry gas, wet gas and oil.

Photo: John Davenport – SA Express News

The Eagle Ford Shale is booming bigger than experts had predicted even last year, producing almost three times the barrels of oil and number of new wells expected.

But an overly aggressive federal government could, through environmental

regulations, threaten development of the Eagle Ford Shale and thus endanger South Texas' oil boom, Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, said Friday.

The Eagle Ford Shale has the potential to help lead the nation toward energy independence, Cornyn said, but “the biggest threat to our energy renaissance is, perhaps, the well-intended but misguided policies out of Washington, D.C.”

The bad comes with the good in oil boom

By Vicki Vaughan SA Express News March 2, 2012

Supreme Services oil field worker Freddy Trevino walks past the Remote Logistics International LLC Three Rivers Lodge last summer. The housing shortage in Three Rivers and the surrounding area is being painted as critical. Photo: Edward Ornelas SA Express News

Here's what it's like to be at the center of a modern-day oil boom.

There's a fellow in Three Rivers who's renting out his house to 17 workers in the Eagle Ford Shale. He's charging each of them $150 a week. That's more than $10,000 a month he earns in rent.

In that same small town, the McDonald's inside Love's Travel Stop has at least 20 job openings and is busing about 10 workers to the store from Beeville, about 34 miles away.

“We have no labor pool in Three Rivers,” said Mike Pearson, the former executive director of the Three Rivers Chamber of Commerce, who related the stories of the rentals. “If you're going to open a business in town, you'd better bring your workers with you.”

Water Forum III October 10, 2012 at Pearl Stable

Mike Burke — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 04:49:39 GMT

Please mark your calendars for our Water Forum III

October 10, 2012 Luncheon at the Pearl Stable

Kick-off by Mayor Julian Castro

Robert Rivard as Moderator

National and International water experts on the panel

Twenty major water exhibits

Recorded by KLRN for Prime time broadcast throughout Texas

Court ruling doesn't end water fights

Express-News Editorial Board Feb 29, 2012

The Edwards Aquifer Authority will need to increase its legal budget in coming years.

The Texas Supreme Court's decision in a dispute between the EAA and Von Ormy property owners whose pumping rights were limited by the authority will spawn a wave of new litigation and most likely increase water costs for Edwards users.

The case focused on whether land owners also have a right to the water underneath their property. The so-called “right of capture” doctrine clashes with the community need to regulate pumping for the benefit of all who live above and use an aquifer.

The high court issued a 50-page opinion written by Justice Nathan Hecht, but the decision was boiled down neatly on Page 8.

“We begin by considering whether, under the (Edwards Aquifer Authority Act), the authority erred ... and conclude that it did not,” Hecht wrote.

The opinion continued, “Next, we turn to whether (the landowner) has a constitutionally protected interest in the groundwater beneath his property and conclude that he does.”

Does the EAA refusal of the full pumping rights sought by the landowner constitute a taking that requires compensation? The court said that issue “must be remanded to the trial court for further proceedings.”

The court decision raises numerous questions for EAA officials and Texans who rely on the Edwards Aquifer. The ruling will have widespread impact on other water districts as well.

Can every homeowner who has a lot over the aquifer now seek permission to drill a well and win compensation if the request is denied? Has the statute of limitations for seeking new pumping permits expired?

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Energy, Water, and the Texas Economy

The Perryman Report & Texas Letter February 2012

(submitted by Frank Burney)

Oil and natural gas exploration and development are driving economic growth in several regions of the state, while another crucial resource, water, represents a notable challenge in that supplies must be increased to deal with ongoing growth in demand. This issue of The Perryman Report & Texas Letter highlights energy and water resources and their past, present, and future roles in the Texas economy.

Complete article at:

http://www.perrymangroup.com/newsletter/12_02TPR&TL.pdf

The Water Sector Workforce Needs Skills of American Workers

Posted on February 28th, 2012

A well-trained water sector workforce is essential to protecting public health and the environment through effective drinking water and wastewater utility operations. However, our water industry has a critical need to develop skilled professionals. Over one-third of current water operators can retire within seven years, and according to the U.S. Department of Labor, employment for water and wastewater operators will grow by 20% between 2008 and 2018, faster than the national average for all other occupations.

Earlier this month, I attended a roundtable in Alexandria, VA hosted by the Water Environment Federation, which brought together utility managers and leaders to discuss developing the next generation of the workforce.

I heard about innovative ways that organizations are making a difference. In Virginia, Loudoun Water worked with a public school to place special needs students in internship positions at the utility. The program helps students gain work experience and better prepares their path from high school to career. In Wisconsin, the Department of Workforce Development created a three-year wastewater treatment plant operator apprenticeship program, providing a mix of on-the-job learning and classroom instruction.

Complete article at: http://blog.epa.gov/blog/2012/02/28/the-water-sector-workforce-needs-skills-of-american-workers/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Greenversations_main+(U.S.+EPA%3A

SA Business Journal 25 year anniversay luncheon "Ten legacy leaders" March 8, 2012

Mike Burke — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 20:36:03 GMT

Dear Mike:

The San Antonio Business Journal is celebrating our 25th anniversary this year, and we plan to honor 10 Legacy Leaders at the March 8th anniversary luncheon - Red McCombs, Henry Cisneros, Tom Frost, Ricardo Romo, Hope Andrade, Nelson Wolff, Peter Holt, Ernesto Ancira, Lila Cockrell and Bill Greehey.

A special supplement will profile them in this Friday's paper. I'm attaching the details of the event in hopes that you and others you may know can attend. In addition to a special presentation to the Legacy Leaders, we are making it a fundraiser for local military health-care charities by donating $25 from each ticket sold, and hope to have a good turnout.

Event sponsors include SWBC, Ernst & Young, U.S. Global, Investors, Holt Cat, and the San Antonio Spurs.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best regards, Kent

http://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/event/64261#register

Food Crisis Arises As Drought Hits Mexico;Efficient Solar Energy; Health experts- more research on Eagle Ford drilling

Mike Burke — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 03:00:39 GMT

Food Crisis Arises As Drought and Cold Hit Mexico

New York Times February 1, 2012

MEXICO CITY undefined A drought that government officials call the most severe this nation has faced since the government began keeping records 71 years ago has left 2 million people without access to water and, coupled with a cold snap, has devastated cropland in nearly half the country.

The government in the past week has authorized more than $2.6 billion in aid undefined including potable water, food and temporary jobs undefined for the most affected areas, rural communities in 19 of Mexico's 31 states.

But officials warned that no serious relief was expected for at least another five months, when the rainy season typically begins in earnest.

While the authorities say they expect the situation to worsen, one of the five worst-affected states, Zacatecas, got a reprieve Sunday. Heriberto Felix Guerra, head of the Ministry of Social Development, saw the rain, the first in 17 months, as a guardedly reassuring sign.

Among the more seriously affected communities are tribal areas of the Tarahumara indigenous community in the Sierra Madre, in the north. Known for endurance running and self-reliance, the Tarahumara are among Mexico's poorest citizens. When false reports of a mass suicide brought on by hunger surfaced recently, journalists and aid organizations poured in.

“I think it has really become extreme poverty,” said Isaac Oxenhaut, national aid coordinator for the Mexican Red Cross. He recently visited the Indian communities where, he said, the land was too dry to grow any crops that the Tarahumara usually depend on for their livelihood. “They don't have anywhere to harvest, absolutely anything,” he added.

Seven percent of the country's agricultural land, mostly in the north and center, has suffered total loss, according to Victor Celaya del Toro, director of development studies at the Agriculture Ministry.

The drought, which has been compounded by freezing temperatures, has already pushed up the cost of some produce, including corn and beans. The governor of the Central Bank, Agustin Carstens, speaking last week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, cautioned that it might cause inflation to rise this year.

But government officials have said they do not expect the price of exports to be affected.

Some of the most devastated areas are hard to reach, slowing the flow of aid to a trickle. The Red Cross is sending 70-pound sacks of rice, beans and sugar, as well as winter clothing.

“A cargo bus will not fit,” Oxenhaut said. “You have to do it with four-wheel drives or donkeys, or the people who take it on their backs.”

Even illicit crops have suffered in the drought. Pedro Gurrola, army commander in the state of Sinaloa, said Monday that many marijuana crops had dried up but that the harvest of what remains has continued.

Power Across Texas Update

Recent MIT research suggests generating efficient solar energy is NOT light years away.

Currently, the most common way to capture the sun's energy is to either (a) capture the light and turn it into electricity using photovoltaic materials or (b) concentrate the sunlight with mirrors to generate enough heat to boil water and turn a turbine. A third, less common approach is to use the sun’s heat to generate electricity directly using thermophotovoltaics. It's this third approach that the researchers at MIT have refined and thereby discovered a way to capture the sunlight without letting as much heat escape - making the technology much more efficient.

If replicated on a large scale, MIT reports, this technology could result in solar power that is efficient enough to compete with conventional forms of power.

To read the paper, click here: http://www.poweracrosstexas.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Thermal-Radiation.pdf

To read the MIT News article about the paper, click: http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/2011/thermo-photovoltaics-1202.html

Sincerely, Becky Klein Chairman, Power Across Texas

Health experts want more research on Eagle Ford drilling

SA Business Journal by W. Scott Bailey January 27, 2012
http://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/print-edition/2012/01/27/health-experts-want-more-research-on.html

Medical experts from across the U.S. say more research is needed
regarding the potential impact on human health associated with the
natural-gas drilling method known as hydraulic fracturing, or fracking -
a technique now in use in the massive Eagle Ford Shale play south of San
Antonio.

Several of those experts have called for a temporary halt to the rapid
expansion of this drilling method, pending more research.
"There is a need for appropriate caution and public-health preventive
measures since an accident ... could have far-reaching consequences,"
says Dr. Claudia Miller, a professor and researcher at the School of
Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San
Antonio, about hydraulic fracturing.

San Antonio leaders believe the Eagle Ford Shale play could have a
significant economic impact on the region because of the number of jobs
it is expected to create and because of the level of investment
anticipated from the companies involved in the drilling activity. But
others warn that those economic gains could come with a steep price.
"The health risks (from fracking) are similar for any operation that
stores petrochemicals, handles toxic waste or is subject to the
possibility of accidents or human error," says Miller, who is
researching the effects of environmentally induced illnesses.

The American Petroleum Institute, which represents more than 400 oil and
natural gas companies, says hydraulic fracturing is a critical process
for accessing domestic natural gas resources.
"Hydraulic fracturing combines a proven technology with an advanced
drilling technique that allows us to access domestic natural gas
resources that were inaccessible just a few years ago," says API Senior
Economist Sara Banaszak. "Developing this domestic natural gas will mean
billions of dollars in government revenue and reductions in greenhouse
gas emissions."

However, Physicians Scientists and Engineers for Healthy Energy (PSE),
along with the Mid-Atlantic Center for Children's Health and the
Environment, a pair of Washington, D.C.-based nonprofits, gathered
together public health experts from across the country recently to
address concerns about hydraulic fracking. They want to see a temporary
halt to this drilling process until more research is conducted.
"There is a need for scientific and epidemiologic information on the
health impacts of fracking," says Dr. Adam Law, founding board member of
the PSE. "Frankly, no one should be unleashing even more fracking before
we have the scientific facts."

One of the chief concerns some have raised about hydraulic fracturing is
the potential contamination of drinking water, as well as the vast
amount of water needed for the drilling process.

Robert Jackson, a professor of biology at Duke University, has
co-authored a white paper titled: Research and Policy Recommendations
for Hydraulic Fracturing and Shale Gas Extraction.
The authors note that, "During the first month of drilling and
production alone, a single well can produce a million or more gallons of
waste water that can contain pollutants in concentrations far exceeding
those considered safe for drinking water and for release into the
environment."

Jackson, who is familiar with Texas and the Eagle Ford Shale, having
spent some time in the Lone Star State, says authors of the paper have
not taken a position on whether there should be a halt on hydraulic
fracturing. But he does say more research is "absolutely" necessary.
Miller asks, "Can we put the genie back in the bottle if contamination
of a well, community water supply or aquifer occurs?"
New rule

Javier Oyakawa, a University of Texas at San Antonio economist who is
tracking the Eagle Ford Shale play, suggests that it could generate some
10,000 jobs in the area by 2020.
Local officials are well aware that there is an opportunity for a
significant economic impact from that fracking activity.
But the companies involved in the play also stand to gain. And Dr.
Jerome Paulson, director of the Mid-Atlantic Center for Children's
Health and the Environment, says those companies should help fund an
independent foundation that would support additional research on the
potential impact of fracking on human health.

"There are a lot of questions related to the human health and ecological
impacts of this process of unconventional gas extraction that need to be
answered," he says.
Officials with the Texas Railroad Commission, which issues drilling
permits, say the state has taken some proactive measures, implementing
the Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid Disclosure Rule.

"With the passage of this mandatory Hydraulic Fracturing Fluid
Disclosure Rule, Texans can be assured they will know more about what is
going into the ground for fracturing than what goes into a can of soda,"
says Texas Railroad Commission Chairman Elizabeth Ames Jones.

"The additives in use in fracture drilling are largely known," Miller
contends. "How dangerous they are depends on their concentration,
proximity of persons or animals to exposure, and whether these chemicals
are properly managed in use and at disposal. From a medical research
perspective, the key is to identify illnesses that conceivably could be
connected to drilling activity."

Bexar Met to SAWS; CPS Energy's weatherization program; Medina Lake withers; CPS Energy/ Consert Smart Grid/ Home Area Network status

Mike Burke — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 04:08:46 GMT

BexarMet turned over to SAWS

By Colin McDonald SA Express News Jan 28, 2012

Ernesto Zatarain of Sign Spot removes lettering from the former BexarMet Water District headquarters' front doors as San Antonio Water Systems (SAWS) legally gained control of the property on Saturday, Jan. 28. 2012. Last November voters opted for the dissolution of the controversial water district. Former general manager of BexarMet Tom Gallier signed legal documents and handed keys over to SAWS officials to mark the transfer of BexarMet operations to SAWS.Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

Read more: http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/environment/article/BexarMet-turned-over-to-SAWS-2783546.php#ixzz1l63zDXkR

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CPS can check energy leaks

CPS Energy is counting on people like Barbara Wright, who has a finely honed distaste for wasting money, in its ongoing efforts to save energy.

By Tracy Idell Hamilton SA Express News Jan 24, 2012

Robert Martinez, Manager for Casa Verde Weatherization, holds a thermal imager camera which shows the heat from the hand print of Kirk Nuckols, Field Representative for CPS, after he removed his hand from the wall. Casa Verde SA marks it's 3000th home to receive weatherization through the program partnered between CPS Energy and the City of San Antonio. The home of Elisa M. Teveni, 83, was the 3000th to receive the benefits of the program. The infrared mark on the wall shows where the device is pointed.

Photo: BOB OWEN, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

Read more: http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/energy/article/Homeowners-get-complete-assessment-of-energy-2674332.php#ixzz1l5zGmG3z

S.A. company could help keep lights on

While state energy regulators wrestle with the question of whether Texas has enough reserve power to avoid blackouts next summer, the company that CPS Energy chose to help the utility reduce its energy load at peak times reported some progress.

By Tracy Idell Hamilton SA Express News Jan 24, 2012

Consert, which has moved its headquarters to San Antonio, makes energy-saving software that is used in conjunction with “smart meters” like this one.Photo: John VanBeekum, AP / The Miami Herald

Read more:http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/energy/article/S-A-company-could-help-keep-lights-on-2613409.php#ixzz1l616mkw8

Medina Lake withers on

By Colin McDonald SA Express News Jan 23, 2012

A dock that once floated in Medina Lake hangs on the side of the rocky bank by wires. The lake is 52 feet below pool and is expected to continue to drop. Because the lake is so low, farmers will only be able to draw water in March and April. The Bexar-Medina-Atascosa Counties Water Improvement District, which owns and operates the lake's dam has promised there will be enough water to meet its contract with San Antonio through 2012.Photo: SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS / SA

All around Medina Lake, floating docks are resting on rocks. Sailboats are listing on their sides, surrounded by dry dirt.

The lake is 52 feet down.

It has not been this low in more than two decades, and the lake is expected to continue to lose a few inches every day as the 15-month drought continues. Every drop means less water available for farmers and the city of San Antonio.

“It's scary,” saidRoland Fein, who came to the lake to fish Thursday. “Forget about recreation; if we don't get a hurricane, we are in trouble.”

TheU.S. Climate Prediction Center

Read more:http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/environment/article/Medina-Lake-withers-on-2674462.php#ixzz1l65VHxGA

San Antonio's River Authority's quarterly newsletter

Mike Burke — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 04:16:01 GMT

We have some wonderful sources of information in our region from a number of first class web sites. We will be featuring many of those over the coming weeks. The first is SARA’s quarterly newsletter, River Reach. The Winter 2010 offering was particularly compelling.

WINTER 2010

Collaboration, Innovation, Our Future
Watershed Integrity Team Seeks to Develop Results through Cooperation and Collaboration
By Russell Persyn, P.E., Ph.D

The Mission Reach Project is a good example of achieving multi-purpose objectives such as flood control, ecosystem restoration, recreation, connectivity and cultural/historic connections.

SARA’s Goals and Measuring Up
By Steve Graham

San Antonio Bay Partnership

By Brian Mast

Reducing Your Water Use
By Brissa Renteria

The Eagle Ford Shale Oil Boom & Water Usage
By Melissa Bryant

Go to: http://www.sara-tx.org/newsletters/winter-10.html

The Future of Energy in the Americas; KLRN's Eagle Ford broadcast in Corpus Christi & Austin; UT Austin Energy Forum

Mike Burke — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:33:49 GMT

The Future of Energy in the Americas

The Energy Forum and PFC Energy hosted a conference on the growing prominence of North American energy resources and the associated policy challenges at the Baker Institute at Rice University on Jan 19, 2012:

The Future of Energy in the Americas: CEO Armchair Session with the Honorable Edward P. Djerejian James T. Hackett, Chairman and CEO, Anadarko; The Honorable Philip R. Sharp, President, Resources for the Future; Scott S. Nyquist, Director, Global Energy Practice, McKinsey & Company

I highly recommend this video (contributed by Lynnae Willete)

http://www.ipolitics360.com/Videos/NorthAmericanEnergyResourcesSummitArmchairSession-brhq7lSdxCk.htm

KLRN – PBS Eagle Ford: Opportunity and Challenge in South Texas

KEDT- PBS Corpus Christi Thur Feb. 2 at 8pm and Sunday Feb. 5 at 9pm

KLRU- PBS Austin Sunday, January 29th at 1:00 pm

To view on internet: http://video.klrn.org/video/2186443362

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"UT: Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Energy,"

Thursday, Feb. 2nd & 3rd, 2012:

Etter-Harbin Alumni Center 2110 San Jacinto Boulevard

A student-led event bringing together leading University researchers and professors, industry leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs and students to explore today’s most pressing energy challenges.

The UT Energy Forum will take place on Thursday, February 2nd and Friday February 3rd, 2012 in Austin, Texas. The first day will feature a keynote from a top-level UT Energy leader, an interdisciplinary panel discussion that will tackle some of the Energy industries most pressing issues, and a networking event. On Friday, attendees will hear two keynote speakers and panel discussions on a variety of energy topics, ranging from oil exploration, renewable energy and innovative research that will change the outlook for our global energy portfolio/energy landscape. In parallel, leading research and innovations at the University of Texas at Austin will be showcased in exhibition format and compressed time-frame TED-style talks.

Join us for insightful interdisciplinary panel discussions led by students, researchers, professors and industry leaders at the 2012 UT Energy Forum!

http://www.utenergyforum.com/about

San Antonio tapped as the best performing city in the nation

Mike Burke — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 03:11:50 GMT

San Antonio tapped as the best performing city in the nation

http://video.foxbusiness.com/v/1395365927001/best-performing-us-city-of-2011/

Texas SBIR/STTR Summit & Conference, January 19 in Austin; Smart Grid Consumer Symposium Jan 23 SA Convention Center

Mike Burke — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 02:27:02 GMT

Texas SBIR/STTR Summit & Conference, January 19 in Austin

Make plans to participate in the Texas SBIR/STTR Summit & Conference, January 19 at the sophisticated AT&T Center in Austin, Texas. The Summit is the “capstone” in pursuing a winning SBIR/STTR proposal, with direct interaction with program managers from the biggest SBIR/STTR granting agencies. Hear direct from the agencies about their pressing technical needs. Promote your firm’s technologies and capabilities. Meet federal prime contractors, investors, university representatives and other resources to assist you in a winning SBIR/STTR proposal!

The event will teach attendees how to access SIT/STTR monies from national experts who have helped companies obtain more than $130 million in SBIR/STTR grants at the largest conference of this kind in Texas.

TO REGISTER:

http://txfic.org/events/overview-and-registration

Early Bird Registration Available Through Jan 17: $149 ! $195 thereafter.

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Smart Grid Consumer Symposium Jan 23 SA Convention Center $175

Details and Registration at http://smartgridcc.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/SGCC-Consumer-Symposium-2012-Highlights.pdf

40 Under 40 Rising Stars 2012 SA Business Journal Awards Luncheon;

Mike Burke — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 02:25:15 GMT

40 Under 40 Rising Stars 2012 SA Business Journal Awards Luncheon

Congratulations to all 40 award winners and we would like to focus on three who have worked closely with the SA Clean Tech Forum and Mission Verde Alliance.

Chris Winland – Director San Antonio Operations, Good Company Associates

Tremendous value in establishing Mission Verde Alliance and helping to plan the recent SA Clean Tech Eagle Ford Forum

Stephanie Bocanegra Suarez – Former Chief of Staff, SAWS

Played a key role in the success of the SA Clean Tech’s Water 1 and Water 2 Forums

Edward Benavides – Chief of Staff, City of San Antonio

Board Director of the newly established Mission Verde Alliance

The awards event will honor the 2011 40 under Forty Rising Stars. These business executives have focused at an early age on what it takes to succeed. Nominations were taken and winners were selected and will be profiled in a special publication published in the December 23rd issue. We search for business people who are making a difference - in their professions and in the business community at large. We hope you will join us in honoring the 2011 winners at the Omni Hotel located at 9821Colonnade Boulevard on Thursday, January 26th.

Please RSVP by January 20th.

For more info, contact Dariela Trevino at 210-477-0855 or saevents@bizjournals.com

When:

Thursday, January 26, 2012, 11:30am-1:30pm

Where:

Omni Hotel
9821 Colonnade Boulevard

San Antonio, TX 78230

Cost:

Starting at $65

To Register: http://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/event/40751#register