The project engineer for the Mark Twain Transmission Project was supposed to be our program today but had to cancel at the last minute, so Annette graciously volunteered to speak to us about that project and much more regarding Ameren and energy in general. Annette said the energy industry as a whole is currently undergoing a huge transformation, as everyone is looking for ways to become less dependent on non-renewable resources like coal, natural gas, and oil,and move towards using renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydro. Solar energy technology has been around a long time and is becoming more prevalent even in residential housing market. Annette said that Ameren frequently offers incentives for people that desire to move away from being completely dependent on non-renewable energy and install solar panels or other non-renewable energy technologies. Currently there are no incentives being offered to update to a solar powered system in the home, but new incentives come out each fall and if you are interested in doing that, and taking advantage of the incentive it might be wise to start talking with solar dealers now so you are ready to purchase when they incentives hit. Annette told us of some things that are on the horizon in the state and potentially in the Kirksville area, including the use of drones to monitor and inspect power lines and making communities more electric vehicle friendly. She also shared that there is a parking lot in Saint Louis that was recently outfitted with a roof and solar panels to power the adjacent building. This was a great idea because it gave the people that parked there reprieve from the elements, and it lowered the company's dependence on non-renewable energy. Over the next couple of years we will be seeing a lot of wind turbines being constructed in the region North of highway 11 and West East of Highway 63.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
Start thinking about ideas for baskets and purchasing wine for the reverse raffle.
Let Sandra know if you have program ideas. We need to get some programs scheduled.
The club is looking for someone to work on grant writing. Talk to Pat or Christine if interested. There will be training opportunities in the near future.
The district is beginning to work on Four-Way test speech contest, RYLA application and selection process, and teacher of the year nominations. Talk with Christine if you have any questions about those.
