Wind Power Conference – 4/29- Great Falls

2004-04-29 10:00:00
MSU College of Technology in Great Falls, 2100 16th Avenue South

The Montana Farmers Union is sponsoring a moderated wind power conference that
will provide Montana farmers, ranchers and rural community representatives all they need to know in
order to make the decision to proceed with the purchase, installation and operation of a small wind
generator.

The one-day conference on Thursday, April 29, 2004, will be held at the MSU College of Technology in
Great Falls, 2100 16th Avenue South, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

NCAT

The introductory presentation will feature John Walden, wind engineer with the National Center for
Appropriate Technology (NCAT), who will discuss development issues, available technologies and how
to match the technology to the need. Conference moderator is Van Jamison, Powair, Helena.

Power Purchase Agreements

One panel will discuss how a producer should make initial contact with the power company and what a
contract agreement entails. Conferees will learn step-by-step procedures to follow when purchasing
a small wind system.

Panel participants include Dave Ryan, NorthWestern Energy; Greg Jergeson, Montana Public Service
Commission; Jason Bronec, Glacier Electric Co-op; and Duane Steen, Montana Dakota Utilities Co.

Real Life Examples

Learn from some of Montana’s wind pioneers. These folks are willing to share their experiences with
others who may be interested in exploring a wind power option.

Jess Alger, Stanford, and Don Marble, of the Liberty County Commission, both have completed the
process and have wind energy operations currently on line and generating power. James Carkulius,
Exergy, of Helena and Great Falls, is associated with a larger system to be on line in Great Falls
in the coming months.

Solar Trailer

Not wanting to ignore the solar alternative, NCAT is also bringing its solar trailer that is used to
train electricians in how to install alternative systems. This demonstration will be tailored to
cover solar stock water projects for farmers and ranchers who are wanting to address livestock and
riparian stream use issues.

Funding Options

Bill Barr, USDA rural development representative will bring conference participants current
information concerning the Request for Proposal set out in section 6009 of the current Farm Bill.
This presentation will give information specific to participants who have a need to prepare
proposals during this open enrollment period.

Preregistration is required. Please send your check in the amount of $30, which includes lunch, to
the MFU state office, Box 2447, Great Falls.

Questions should be directed to “Chris” Christiaens, Operations Director, or Sandy Courtnage,
Communication Director.

Sandy Courtnage

Communications Director

Montana Farmers Union

PO Box 2447

Great Falls, MT 59403

T – 406-452-6406

F – 406-727-8216

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