World-Herald editorial: Renewable push

Rural Nebraska won’t be left out of the sustainable energy market now that the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Haskell Agricultural Lab will turn its attention in that direction.

Groundbreaking for the project, called Sustainable Energy Options for Rural Nebraska, took place this week at the lab near Concord. The lab, which already conducts diversified agricultural research, will evaluate alternative energy production systems for use on Nebraska farms. Wind and solar electric generating systems will be installed for study.

Among other things, researchers will look at ethanol-fueled irrigation power units, tracking their efficiency, costs and other components of their use across the state. When the project is over, according to Twig Marston of the extension service in Norfolk, Neb., rural Nebraskans will have enough information to decide whether alternative energy systems are feasible.

U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry helped secure $500,000 in federal funding for the project. It has the potential to help the state build its commitment to and expertise in renewable energy sources. A worthy project.

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