On Thursday, April 11, the Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) hosted the Portage County Business Council’s (PCBC) leadership program for a day of education and inspiration. Nearly 30 area leaders gathered at the ReNew the Earth Institute (REI) in Custer, WI where they learned how to live and work in ways that prioritize environmental conservation, social responsibility, and economic viability.
The day began with a tour of the MREA’s grounds and facilities followed by a presentation on local energy transition opportunities by MREA Executive Director Nick Hylla, a group activity to discuss what they had just learned, and an introduction to land use and large scale solar in Portage County presented by UW–Stevens Point Land Specialist Lynn Markham. After lunch, the group met with Mid-State Technical College leadership and heard from Hylla once again as he presented on Wisconsin pathways to net zero. The day concluded with a group activity that covered large-scale solar priorities in Portage County and a summary discussion to review everything they learned.
Holly Fox, director of professional development at the PCBC, chose the REI as the place to hold its sustainability day for MREA’s expertise in the field. “I really wanted the participants to look through a different lens and gain a perspective that would influence daily habits and thought patterns. The importance of this day lies in its potential to shift perspectives and inspire meaningful change, ultimately impacting our world,” Fox said. “The MREA provided us with the knowledge and tools to begin this journey towards a more sustainable future.”
Located in the rolling hills of Custer, WI, the ReNew the Earth Institute is the official name for the MREA’s headquarters. Completely powered by renewable energy systems, the REI is a 4,200-square-foot building that incorporates energy-efficient features such as passive solar design, energy-efficient light fixtures, solar hot air, roof and ground-mounted solar PV arrays, in-floor radiant heat, a timber framed lobby, masonry heater, and much more. To plan your visit (and charge your electric vehicle for free!), please email info@midwestrenew.org and inquire about scheduling a free tour to learn more about our building, energy infrastructure, and initiatives.
