Expert: Right investments key to clean energy

Jan 27 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Kris Turner The Blade, Toledo, Ohio


Clean energy can compete with, and even surpass, fossil fuels if the right investments are made in the technology behind it, the head of a company specializing in sustainable energy solutions told the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce during its annual meeting Thursday.

Dave Heidenreich, chairman of the board at EBO Group near Akron, said solar power can produce more energy than fossil fuels and revitalize northwest Ohio's economy.

Solar power has played a minor role in the world's energy supply because it has been expensive to produce, said Mr. Heidenreich, who wrote the book Exponential Solar in 2007. Although it was less than 1 percent of the world's power in 2005, solar power could increase to 9 percent by 2021 -- and continue to grow after that -- if technological advancements continue.

"Some of these things the government has to do, and some of them we have to work harder and smarter," he said about regulating competition with China while innovating at home.

Energy's future isn't necessarily dominated by one aspect of the industry, Mr. Heidenreich said. Ultimately, a combination of solar, wind, clean technology, and fossil fuels will pave the way for a sustainable future. "It won't be just solar doing it," he said.

Companies need to look beyond solar-panel production to maximize on the industry's growth, said Craig Winn, president and chief executive officer of The Applied Group Inc. in Toledo. The company specializes in manufacturing and technology solutions.

Manufacturers should look into large solar projects or consider making the parts necessary to install solar panels, Mr. Winn said. Solar-panel manufacturers are facing steep competition with China and have trouble keeping up with foreign production rates and prices.

"There will be some closings and consolidations," Mr. Winn said of panel manufacturers. "We're smart people who have been through this before."

Mr. Winn worked in the automotive industry in the 1980s when Japan took a sizable chunk out of the market. He equated that situation to China's effect on the solar-panel producers. "Our call to action is to support the region, our solar cluster, and, most importantly, our solar companies," he said.

Greg Knudson, vice president of sales and marketing for Toledo-based Nextronex Energy Systems, said he hopes the solar industry can play a significant part in growing Ohio's economy. The area's strong manufacturing base makes it a prime spot to produce and develop solar technologies, he added.

"It takes more than hopes and wishes," Mr. Knudson said. "It's all about everyone working together."

Government support, innovation, and continued partnerships among solar firms in northwest Ohio are key components of ensuring green technology thrives, he said. "Anything is possible if enough of the key players work together."

Contact Kris Turner at: kturner@theblade.com or 419-724-6103.

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