Connections
Where we are, and where we are going...Stay connected
October 2018
A Message from the Director
I can’t believe it’s been a month since the Green Energy Ohio Tour! Thanks again to all who came out and participated in the Tour on a beautiful autumn weekend. A special thanks to the host sites that made this year one of the largest tours ever and the dozens of people who worked behind the scenes to plan and set up the Tour. I was personally overwhelmed by the hospitality, creativity, and commitment of the homeowners I met – I hope that all of you will apply that enthusiasm to stay engaged with GEO. You will be receiving surveys designed to help us learn more about your experience and plan for future tours. 
 
In the next month, GEO members and supporters will also be receiving material on the GEO Annual Campaign with a review of 2018 activities and information on our plans for 2019.  We are very grateful for the sustained support of the clean energy community and we want to continue expanding our network through innovative programming and productive partnerships. 

Over the past few years, we have seen ample evidence of the ways in which state and local policies impact the growth of renewables in Ohio, so please take the time to be a clean energy voter between now and November 6!

Jane Harf,
Executive Director
Spotlight
Images of the Tour
In Other News...
The proposal by the Lake Erie Energy Development Co. (LEEDCo) to build a six-turbine wind farm 8 to 10 miles offshore took another step in the right direction with a ruling by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that the project will have no significant impact on the environment. The comprehensive study included 14 categories of environmental impact, including the impact of the project on the Lake bottom, on fish, insects, birds, and bats, on water quality, and on lake use.

The ruling came after a two-year review mandated by federal law, and will result in continued federal funding for the project. DOE awarded LEEDCo a $50 million grant six years ago and has dispensed $10 million of that award as the project developers met required milestones.

GEO has supported LEEDCo on several occasions, including in our 2018 Policy document and a recent letter to the Ohio Power Siting Board
Our Ohio Partners
Do you want to learn how to install solar? Maybe you even want to become certified to work in the solar field. Now you can spend just five days of classroom training in a relaxed setting to realize your goal. This course is ideal for those interested in installing a DIY system or entering the field of solar installation. No previous experience necessary.

Learn more and register at  www.bluerockstation.com.  This workshop is sponsored by Blue Rock Station Green Living Center, UpGrade Athens County, and Rural Action. Space is limited and registration with Blue Rock Station is required for this event. $930 for Rural Action Members.  
Upcoming Events
Join fellow energy and environmental advocates from around the state as we celebrate the work the Ohio Environmental Council and its partner organizations. The Green Gala is an opportunity to commit to building a greener future together and honor outstanding members of the community.   

COSI 333 W Broad St  Columbus OH 43215 
Saturday, November 17, 2018 6:00 PM EST- 9:00 PM EST
Lifetime Achievement Award
Nancy Stranahan
As the Executive Director and founding member of the Arc of Appalachia , a non-profit that focuses on forest conservation, Nancy has organized the purchase of over a dozen natural areas in southern Ohio. Through her work with the Arc, Nancy has saved 6,200 acres from development and extractive industries.
People's Voice Award
Linda Matthews
Linda is the Founder and Executive Director of the Lincoln Heights Comprehensive Development Corporation , as well as Principle of Millennium Group II, LLC , leading projects in resilient community development, green infrastructure, renewable energy and solar technologies, water management, and permaculture.
Emerging Leader Award
Leo Almeida
Leo Almeida is the Climate and Clean Energy Policy Associate for The Ohio Nature Conservancy . He works with members of the Ohio General Assembly and Ohio members of Congress to advance clean energy and energy efficiency policies and regulations, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.
614-902-2465
P.O. Box 521
Granville, Ohio 43023