Sacramento State hosts clean energy expo

Sacramento State is partnering with the Sacramento Area Regional Technology Alliance (SARTA) to showcase clean energy technologies, beginning 8 a.m., Friday, Sept. 26 in the University Union Ballroom.

The Clean Energy Showcase-Venture Expo will feature companies specializing in the design and manufacture of clean technology, devices and equipment.

“Programs like this help establish our region as a clean technology area,” says Engineering and Computer Science dean Emir Macari. “This expo helps connect businesses looking to incorporate green practices with start-up companies producing new green technology. It’s a win-win situation for both.”

“Businesses have come to realize the need to become smart energy users and reduce their carbon footprint,” says Ingrid Rosten, executive director for CleanStart, a SARTA-affiliated agency that helps companies develop clean energy practices. “Several local businesses have already put wind turbines on their rooftops, installed solar panels or invested in energy-saving and energy-management devices.”

SARTA is a non-profit corporation established to help develop the Sacramento region into a nationally recognized technology center. The venture, now in its third year, alternates between Sacramento State and UC Davis.

“It’s a natural for the two major academic institutions in our region to be involved because we have the facilities, the expertise in green energy practices and the people to help put on this important event,” Macari says. “Industry and government agencies in the region will be able to see the research capabilities of our faculty and that will help us better connect with them to help solve their energy needs.”

Macari says industry has a particular interest in Sacramento State and its graduates because of its focus on applied research. “We’re not working on research to be developed 20 to 30 years from today; we are working on problems that are happening today and need solutions today.”

The expo is expected to draw about 500 people. Fifty companies will have booths to showcase their products. One will be selected as Best in Show and one as runner up, both for cash prizes. In addition, 15 companies will give presentations of their future plans.

The expo is open to the public. To register, visit www.amplifyllc.com/in-tel/ListOfEvents.cfm?ID=CLNS

For additional information contact Macari at 278-6127.