Manitoba Sustainable Energy Association (ManSEA) returned to Morden to host its 2023 conference on Tuesday.
Speakers and displays addressed the theme: Energy Independence for Manitoba.
Miriam Sweetnam, a local dairy farmer and board member for ManSEA, says this educational event is aimed at people looking for options in adopting renewable energy.
“Our goal today is to reach as many as possible, you know, spark an interest; fuel that interest to maybe action and just explore all the options that are available. Efficiency Manitoba is here and they’ve talked about their programs. It might be windows, doors, it might be changing a heat source. Just exploring and getting that information before you take action.”
Sweetnam says taking a step toward sustainability can be as simple as changing the type of light bulbs one uses.
A speaker on stage
Topics covered at the conference included Integrated resource planning processes, Energy savings for businesses and residences and
Phosphorouand biochar production from biomass. Other presentations dealt with battery technology and renewable technology opportunities and challenges in the province.
The organization works to promote the sustainable development of the province’s energy resources. Members hold to the principle that long-term prosperity and quality of life will be possible only by transitioning from non-renewable to renewable energy throughout Manitoba. According to a new release, that change will create significant economic development opportunities across the province.
One hundred twenty-five people registered for the annual conference, which was in Morden for the second time.
“One of the biggest parts of ManSEA is really focusing on the rural aspect of businesses, organizations, and individuals,” explained board member Alexander Lavoie.
“So when it comes to sustainable energy practices, we do like to move around Manitoba and really be as inclusive as possible for all the municipalities and rural communiis.”