The Wisconsin Wind Works, a state wide manufacturing business development organization, recently hosted their Wind Energy Symposium. With nearly 300 local manufacturers and producers in attendance, the symposium offered various discussion panels, exhibitor booths, and keynote speakers such as AWEA’s Jeff Anthony and the Great Lakes Wind Network’s Ed Weston.
Jeff Anthony, Director of Business Development for the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), discussed the importance of political backing for the industry. Stating that each of the European Union countries, China, and India all have strong national policies promoting the development of renewable energy technology, Mr. Anthony made it very clear that the U.S. federal government would play a vital role in the future expansion of the industry. As Mr. Anthony highlighted the ARRA 48C program, manufacturers from around Wisconsin learned how they can better serve the wind industry.
Discussion panels from 1st, 2nd, and 3rd tier manufacturers brought to light the importance of offering complete solutions for a given niche in the market. As speakers from companies such as Wausaukee Composites, Milwaukee Machine Works, L&S Electric, and Merit Gear spoke on their experiences working with the wind industry supply chain, representatives from other Wisconsin based companies gleaned valuable information from their experienced peers.
This symposium marks the beginnings of a new era for a number of companies in the area, both manufacturers and service providers alike. For more information on the program visit the New North and the Wisconsin Wind Works.
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