Tuesday, January 18, 2011

HU BioEnergy Summit Set: Innovative Technologies for an Energized Future!

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology will host the BioEnergy Summit on March 15, 2011. The theme for the event is Innovative Technologies for an Energized Future!

Harrisburg, PA, January 18, 2011 -- Harrisburg University of Science and Technology will host the BioEnergy Summit on March 15, 2011. The theme for the event is Innovative Technologies for an Energized Future!. The commercialization of technologies and processes used to produce bioenergy from a variety of biomass resources highlights this half-day program. The BioEnergy Summit will also explore innovative nanotechnologies for bioenergy production and technologies for producing energy from wastewater.

Keynote speaker Dr. William Goldner of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) will give an overview of the strategic thinking and programs USDA NIFA and other USDA agencies are using to address the sustainable production of biofuels, biopower, and biobased products. The programs include: regional systems-oriented programs that integrate research, education, and extension/outreach/ technology transfer; pre-commercialization R&D for small businesses; and grant and loan guarantee programs for demonstration and commercialization. Dr. Goldner will provide some examples of how businesses may use these programs to take part in this important renewable energy sector. He will also discuss the need to include emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and waste water management in developing bioenergy and the need for a thoughtful integrated approach to grow bioenergy, water quality and availability management systems, and perhaps other emerging energy resources (e.g. natural gas) in Pennsylvania and the surrounding region without disrupting existing agricultural systems, natural resources, and rural communities.

Roundtable discussions will examine the business opportunities that can be cultivated, why sustainable energy solutions are as good for business as they are for the environment, and the importance of obtaining financial support to the commercialization process. Scientists, government officials, entrepreneurs and investors will discuss promising research, successful ventures, overcoming commercialization challenges and market-driven opportunities.

Sponsors of the BioEnergy Summit include the Lehigh Nanotechnology Network and Lehigh University.

Program Agenda

9:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.          Registration and Networking

9:30 a.m. - 9:35 a.m.          Welcome Remarks

9:35 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.         Keynote Presentation - Dr. William Goldner, National Program Leader, USDA, NIFA, Division of Sustainable Bioenergy

10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.        Moderated Panel Discussion led by Thomas Armstrong, PIEE

12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.         Luncheon Roundtables - Breakout discussions organized by   industry/research themes

1:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.          Research and Industry Showcase - Special announcements from featured guests and audience members

1:45 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.           Reports from Breakout Discussions

2:15 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.           Concluding Remarks

Cost is $35.  Register online at http://www.harrisburgu.net/academics/professional/prof-dev-registration.php  For additional information, go online to www.HarrisburgU.edu/BioEnergySummit or email BioEnergy@HarrisburgU.edu or call Dr. Leena Pattarkine at 717.901.5168.

**Program subject to change.

Harrisburg University is located at 326 Market Street in Harrisburg. The Harrisburg Parking Authority operates a garage accessible via Fourth Street. Cost for parking in the garage is $4.00 for 0-2 hours. Kiosk for parking accepts cash only. More information on parking rates and directions to the University are found online at http://www.harrisburgu.net/campuslife/directions.php#parking

Founded in 2001 to address Central Pennsylvania’s need for increased opportunities for study leading to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, Harrisburg University is an innovative and ambitious private institution that produces graduates who provide increased competence and capacity in science and technology disciplines to Pennsylvania and the nation. Harrisburg University ensures institutional access for underrepresented students and links learning and research to practical outcomes. As a private University serving the public good, Harrisburg University remains the only STEM-focused comprehensive university located between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

For more information on the University's demand-driven undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs in applied science and technology fields, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu

Contact:
Steven Infanti
Communications
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
326 Market Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.901.5146
Sinfanti@HarrisburgU.edu
http://www.harrisburgu.edu/

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