'Connecting the dots' on biomass use
New York State's new Biomass Energy Alliance goes into business, officially, on April 1st, and hopes it will create a big push on renewable energy.
Tom Sleight, who heads NY's Farm Viability Institute, says it's a coalition that should help 'connect the dots'.' "Farmers need to be convinced of how this will work for them," he says. He hopes more farmers will grow renewable resources, like willow or perennial grasses to use as biofuels. Wood pellet makers, and businesses looking to move away from coal or oil-fueled heating systems are also welcome to participate.
"If this doesn't start making motions and progress in two years, the effort will cease," says Sleight.
He says farmers and businesses are already planning commitments for next year, and they need answers now on how this could work for them.
For more information you can email info@ newyorkbiomass.org or call 315 453-3823.
Their website, www.newyorkbiomass.org was still under construction at last check.
