Conservation, alternate sources key

Reference the "Energy Ed" meeting Jan. 27, at University of Dubuque: Three items that affect our energy costs not included in the computer model are:

* Conservation, named by energy analysts as most important to controlling our energy costs. No matter what your choice of energy production, improving insulation and windows should be a top priority. Also, Energy Star ratings should be just your low starting point for appliances.

* How we use photovoltaic and wind sources is already in the mix. The "Energy Ed" model was not able to compare the way the PV should be used. PV-produced electricity for the grid is expensive. A small homeowner (not utility) PV system will run an attic fan but not your central AC. Reducing the temperature in the attic using PV can cut AC use about in half. This PV electricity does not show up on the computer model as energy produced. This solar electricity does help keep the lights on (and will reduce your energy bill a lot).

* Iowa can easily produce more electricity from wind than we need and export the rest. There are many wind turbines operating in Iowa (private and utility) and many more privately owned ones waiting to go on the grid. Some homeowner's alternate energy systems already produce more energy than they need. This electricity is also not included in this model.

The Jan. 28 Telegraph Herald article on this meeting stated several people felt the computer model relied too heavily on coal and natural gas. I agree. Electricity not produced by "normal" means and not delivered by the utility is still electricity for us to use. The "Energy ED" computer model is a great start to help "keep the lights on." Some of the answer also lies in understanding how alternate energy sources work and are already helping.