Central Illinois Renewable Energy Expo on April 5th & 6th at Three Sisters Park

You knew, didn’t you … that our dependence on imported fossil fuel has begun to affect our way of life? Did you also know that the use of renewable energy creates little greenhouse gas emissions? Did you know that renewable energy use is expected to expand significantly in the U.S. in the next decade? Did you know that using renewable energy not only helps the environment, but might save you money on your energy costs?

So, do you now have a case of TMI – too much information? Just so you know, renewable energy is any source of energy that can be used without depleting reserves such as wind, sunlight, solar energy, wave, biomass and hydro energy.

With increasing energy prices and the advent of the “Green Revolution,” the Peoria County 4-H Extension Foundation and Three Sisters Park have come together to assemble an event that will give area residents an avenue to learn more about these revolutionary technologies. These organizations have been collaborating to host the first annual Central Illinois Renewable Energy Expo at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe. These organizations share a commitment to energy efficiency and independence, renewable energy and eco-friendly technology.

The Central Illinois Renewable Energy Expo (CREE) will be held on April 5th and 6th. It

will feature presentations and interactive displays, showcasing current and emerging technologies and will bring together business, government and community members as partners working toward a more secure and sustainable energy future. In addition to vendor displays focusing on topics from Geothermal to Solar Power, Wind Energy to Renewable Fuels, and even Hybrid Vehicles, there will be presentations each day on various renewable energy topics. There will be food and drinks on both days. The cost of admission is $5.00 for ages over 12 and those under 12 are free. The event hours will be from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 5th and from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 6th. For more info, call Gene Pratt at Three Sisters Park at 274-8837 or Gary Sutton, Expo Coordinator at 282-4839. Or, you can check out the website at www.ciree.net.

Jerry Price from Plymouth, Wisconsin will participate in the Central Illinois Renewable Energy Expo on April 5th. Price partnered with Peorian Dr. Rich McKone to convert his 1967 Aston Martin DB6 to run on alternative fuels for the around-the-world Great Race in 2008. Price will be the chief mechanic and driver for the expedition and will be at the Expo at approximately 1:00 p.m., along with his car to make a presentation on the renewable energy aspects of the car and will also participate in a question and answer session.

Among the many exhibitors at this first annual event are:

American Lung Association – dedicated to providing healthier living and clean breathing for the people of central Illinois.

Midwest Green Energy – a resource company for solar and wind systems in the central U.S.

Bradley University Student Environmental Coalition – an affiliate of the national environmental organization which emphasizes environmental action.

Peoria County Recycling – The Tri-County Green Matters Program provides recognition to area businesses, institution, local governments and others that are leaders in environmental stewardship.

National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research – The scientists not only study crops and livestock to improve both quality and quantity but also devise new ways to use those crops to add value, increase exports, improve human health, and protect the environment.

Trillium Dell Timberworks – a family-owned timber works building and restoration business that sits on 80 acres in rural Knoxville. Building, restoring or using sustainable materials is at the heart of Trillium Dell’s philosophy.

General Motors – Come see the latest “green” technology in the automotive world, courtesy of GM.

Better Built/Tricon – recognizes those within the industry – from contractors and trade people to realtors, developers and lenders who strive to attain higher levels of quality, value and craftsmanship.