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Spring 2005 Newsletter

In this issue:

Stakeholder spotlight - environmental / advocacy groups

The NC GreenPower program relies heavily on a diverse group of stakeholders to help develop strategies to best meet the energy needs of all the citizens of North Carolina. In the past issue, our focus was on the state’s electric utilities and their participation as partners in the development of renewable energy across the state. This month, we turn our attention to another group that has been equally essential in the creation and support of NC GreenPower – environmental groups.

Since its very inception, NC GreenPower has relied heavily on input from environmental groups, as well as a number of diverse stakeholders who have each provided valuable input into the program’s development. Environmental groups serve as a great pillar of support for the efforts of NC GreenPower in many ways, including:

• Representation on the NC GreenPower Board of Directors.

• Expertise provided on environmental issues around the state.

• Extensive marketing support provided in both the development and distribution of materials.

• Volunteer support in the NC GreenPower Speakers Bureau.

• Sharing of the message of renewable energy on a personal basis in towns and communities across the state.

“We rely heavily on input from the environmental community,” said Dr. Robert K. Koger, president on NC GreenPower. “Their knowledge and enthusiasm is essential in helping us create a balanced approach to North Carolina’s energy, environment and economy.”

Groups represented in the NC GreenPower program from the environmental community are in many ways as diverse as the participants of the program itself. Some groups are nationally recognized advocacy organizations and employ dozens of people throughout the state. Others involve one or two individuals closely tied to efforts in and around their community. Some, like statewide, membership-based energy advocacy group N.C. Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA), also serve as Program Affiliates, and provide a wide range of support to NC GreenPower.

“Having advocated for a statewide clean energy program for many years prior to the inception of NC GreenPower, we are particularly delighted in our involvement in its creation, governance, and now its marketing effort,” said Mark Ginsberg, NCSEA’s executive director.

NCSEA is also creating new opportunities to carry the message of renewable energy and NC GreenPower into homes across the state.

“Our newest program is the Green Power House Party," says Ginsberg. "People have friends and family over to their home to watch an entertaining video hosted by actress Cameron Diaz which ties together concerns over climate change and renewable energy & energy efficiency. They can then sign up on the spot to participate in NC GreenPower!”

Regardless the size, budget or scope of the group, organizations in the environmental community share a common vision – to work towards a better environmental future for the world in which we live. And with NC GreenPower, these groups are helping to develop and support cleaner, more abundant energy sources in our state. Their efforts are helping to improve air and water quality in North Carolina and are consistent with their missions to promote good stewardship of the environment.