NorCal forum to focus on renewable energy

Northern Californians seeking more information on programs to boost alternative energy can attand a conference Thursday in Chico:

The event is organized by North State Renewable Energy, led by Chico State University Provost Scott McNall and past City Councilor Dan Nguyen-Tan. The group promotes renewable energy and conservation practices. The plan is to form a technical advisory group with industry and university specialists, develop ties with state and national groups and come up with a plan for promoting renewable energy in the future.

Members include representatives from major public and private entities who view solar energy as economically beneficial and a way to help with environmental problems.

Topics to be tackled at the conference include the California Energy Commission renewable energy rebate program, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's approach to renewable energy, residential applications, large rooftop solar projects and solar, agricultural and local government use of alternative energy.