Conversations Live: Wind Energy
Wind power in Pennsylvania is on track to cut the yearly carbon emissions produced by four coal-fired power plants! Still, wind energy faces many challenges–from expiring tax breaks to claims that industrial wind turbines kill wildlife and make some people sick. Our experts examine the growing pains surrounding wind energy.
Panelists
Susan Stewart, Ph.D.
Research Associate, Aerospace Engineering and Architectural Engineering
Stewart’s research focuses on renewable energy technology and implementation (resources, hybrid designs, policies and society), as well as thermal fluid system design optimization for improved energy system performance. Among her current responsibilities are developing curricula in wind and solar energy for an online master’s degree program in renewable energy and sustainability systems (RESS), directing the Pennsylvania Wind for Schools program, and working with interdisciplinary groups on wind and solar energy research. Stewart, who earned her bachelor’s degree at Penn State, received her master’s and doctorate degrees in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech in 2001 and 2003, respectively.
Tamara Gagnolet
Energy Program and Geographical Information Science Manager, The Nature Conservancy’s Pennsylvania Office
A member of The Nature Conservancy’s energy and climate team for nearly a decade, Gagnolet served on the research team that developed the Pennsylvania Energy Impacts Assessment, which offered a comprehensive look at the current and projected cumulative impacts of energy development on the state’s forests and freshwater resources. Gagnolet currently works as a team member for a similar analysis of energy impacts across the central Appalachians.
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