When you think about the energy paradigm we have been operating under, we are talking about fundamental change, says Ernie Shea, project coordinator, 25x'25 Renewable Energy Alliance, which aims to utilize the nation's farms, ranches and forests to produce power to fuel 25 percent of America's energy consumption by 2025 (in addition to these resources producing food and fiber). “We are creating a new paradigm that displaces others and when you do that people push back and try to undermine your work.”

And while renewable energy efforts of all types have their detractors, one thing is clear, the development of these technologies and using domestic resources, has a seat at the table in regard to powering America's energy system.

Much of the Renewable Energy issue of GCX is dedicated to covering renewable energy and the site selection process, as well as industry specific perspectives, in regard to activities in the wind, solar and biofuels energy sectors. Articles include insights into wind energy, where we explore the possibility of new and different ways to manufacture parts, such as nacelles.

Also, learn why the solar energy industry is red hot; and how the United States can regain its solar energy leadership position in a Q&A with the Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association.

Turning to activities in the biofuels sector, we discover why the Southeast United States requires wood and new energy crops to fulfill their feedstock needs, as opposed to corn feedstocks, which are commonly used in the Midwest.

Rounding out the renewable energy coverage is a Q&A with 25x'25's Shea, who outlines the initiative's stakeholders, where the organization stands in regard to climate change legislation, and what its efforts mean to the elevation of the renewable energy industry.

Plus

The Renewable Energy issue's coverage also includes “Food Preparation's Innovations,” where we learn how new ideas in food processing will address concerns in health and land stewardship. Among the efforts are sustainability and “green” initiatives.

A final “green” topic is “What Is The Real Value Of Green Buildings?” To start, LEED-certified buildings are not only good for the environment; they are magnets for tenants and talent.

And finally, the year's Regional Profiles series concludes with outlooks for the fourth quarter, and a peek at 2010, for the economies of the Midwest United States, and the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

Warm regards,

Rachel Duran

Editor In Chief