ODU Hosts Energy Conservation Conference at the Ted

The 2008 Eastern Virginia Energy Conservation Conference will be held at Old Dominion University's Ted Constant Center May 14-15. State Senator Frank Wagner will deliver the opening address. Other speakers will include David Heacock, president of Dominion Power, and Michael Townes, president and CEO of Hampton Roads Transit. Stephen Walz, Gov. Tim Kaine's energy adviser, will also attend.

Business, industry, municipalities and the military can learn about the latest in energy conservation technologies and practices at this two-day conference, which is coordinated by ODU's Virginia Applied Technology and Professional Development Center (VATPDC). The center is operated by the university's Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology.

"Much is said about the danger of dependence on imported oil, and the need for alternative energy sources. A proven way to reduce dependence is through energy conservation," said Jerry Robertson, executive director of VATPDC. "It's been said that the most efficient power plant is the one you don't have to build."

Topics explored at the conference breakout sessions will be organized around 1) identifying wasted energy, 2) costs and benefits of energy management strategies, 3) determining the most cost-effective solutions and 4) general energy conservation ideas.

The general conference registration fee is $250, which includes meals and parking. Discounts are available for registrations received prior to April 15. Students, as well as representatives from government agencies and academic institutions, are also eligible for a discount.

Information about registration, or about sponsorships and exhibitor fees, can be found at www.evec2008.com. All registration information should be sent to Kendra Briscoe, program manager for VATPDC. She can be reached at 757-683-5479. The conference coordinator, Sam Manning, can be reached at 757-683-3825.