Redwood Coast Energy Authority Hosting Open House

This is a press release from the Redwood Coast Energy Authority:

The Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) is holding two public open house information sessions from 4 to 7 p.m. on March 5 at the Social Club in Samoa and March 6 at the Plaza Grill View Room. The community is invited to learn about major updates from RCEA: exploring the potential for local offshore wind energy, shovel-ready plans for a solar microgrid project at the airport in McKinleyille, current local power procurement, advancements in local electric transportation, and other programs and projects. Snacks and beverages will be available at both locations.

Humboldt County has been featured in local, national and international news recently after being identified as a potentially ideal location for offshore wind energy generation. The RCEA, tasked with developing local renewable resources and energy-related economic advancement, has taken lead on coordinating the extensive planning and research process required. While input from local fishermen, tribes, environmentalists, and government partners has been ongoing, public input and participation are key to understanding and shaping the benefits to our community.

RCEA is also partnering with the Schatz Energy Research Center (SERC) at Humboldt State University to build the first-ever utility-scale solar microgrid project at the California Redwood Coast – Humboldt County Airport in McKinleyville. The project will be funded by a $6M contribution from RCEA and a $5M grant from the California Energy Commission. The $5M was awarded to SERC last week through the California Energy Commission’s EPIC program. Details about this project, and others will be featured during the open house.

For more information on any of these projects or meetings visit www.RedwoodEnergy.org or call (707) 269-1700.