Can climate-smart agriculture fix climate change, or will it make things worse? We will talk about false solutions and how agroecology is a better path towards achieving climate justice.

Bias is too prevalent. Critical thinking needs to be learned. This workshop will cover the Socratic way of questioning.

Explore different strategies being piloted across Wisconsin that reduce building emissions and lower utility costs for renters by combining solar and electrification.

Keith & Jared will discuss how individuals and businesses can align their investments with their values by excluding or including sectors of the economy, such as fossil fuels vs. renewable energy.

Cut your waste line to increase your bottom line. Gain ideas for reducing your waste at home through near zero waste solutions. Tools to get started will be shared.

Nikola Tesla revolutionized the world with his power system. Designed and patented to be a complete Green Power Solution. So why are we are using only half of his eco friendly design?

The most important survival skill once you have water is building shelter. Class size is limited. Family-friendly activity.

Transform recycled materials into works of art with Miss Rachel! Go beyond conventional recycling by repurposing canvas from previous Energy Fair’s to take home or showcase at the Fair! Supplies will be provided. 

Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology uses electric vehicles as distributed energy storage to stabilize the grid and reduce the need for fossil fuels. This workshop explores opportunities and challenges.

I will describe conservation on private lands in China, Vietnam and Wisconsin to demonstrate that the functional steps to successful conservation remains the same, even among disparate cultures.

Energy transition requires coordination. Join Northeast Wisconsin Technical College’s facilitation of a NSF-funded Utility Energy Coordination Network discussion of energy industry and educators.

Agrivoltaics aims to optimize co-located solar PV and agriculture to mitigate land-use conflict. UW-Madison researchers will discuss agrivoltaics’ potential in Wisconsin and a new demonstration site.

As interest in electrification increases, how do we make sure everyone can benefit? Learn and discuss with Jeanine Otte from Elevate, a 22-year old nonprofit focused on equity through climate action.

Learn about the Sketchbox™, a free energy modeling tool that calculates energy use in buildings. The Sketchbox™ interface runs online without downloads. It’s ideal for education or building exploration.

What’s all the hype on tiny houses? Ramy goes through the whys, hows, and why nots of tiny house design and building!

The purpose of this workshop is to learn the fundamentals of heat pumps, type of heat pumps, selection considerations, and review of latest technology for cold climates with some application examples.

The Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum presents Pollinators! We will be learning about pollinators, creating our own seed bombs, and creating bee houses!

Pumping water for agriculture uses has both on and off grid applications from small to commercial scale. Representative examples of installations will be reviewed along with economic benefits.

Utility companies are targeting net-metering via state legislation and PSC rulings. Net metering has been repealed in HI, CA, AZ, IN, & MI, with more to come. Don’t let it happen in your state!

Using key IRA and other funding, governments, businesses and other organizations can implement cost-effective clean energy, electric vehicle and charging projects while lowering energy costs.

The Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin works to connect donors with a wide variety of conservation-focused causes, including the MREA. Join Jenny from the Community Foundation and Celia from the MREA to learn how your legacy can support MREA to make certain the highest quality
renewable energy options are always available. We will also share other planned giving ideas aimed at ensuring continuous resources are accessible to organizations that benefit the natural environment, animals, and humans.

Learn how a community can provide thousands of pounds of fresh produce to those in need through community garden sites, personal garden donations, and gleaning at the Farmer’s Market.

In 2021, Illinois passed sweeping climate legislation that will ensure an equitable transition to clean energy. Come learn about the work it took to get there, and how your state can do the same.

Calling all bakers, pickle makers and jammers. Learn how to start a food product business from home by taking advantage of state laws that allow the sale of “non-hazardous” food items.

Shane Devins, Attorney at Clean Energy Counsel, will provide an overview of the basics of options to lease and leases for renewable energy projects, including typical project financing requirements.

Living Off Grid, Really?!? – Aur Beck, NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™- AESsolar.com ‘Da Energy Mon’ has lived off grid for 18 years and you can too. Learn real, fun, interesting & low cost ways

Can you imagine using prairie grass to fuel trucks, planes, and ships? Join us for a hands-on, kid-friendly experiment to explore how scientists in Wisconsin are working on this challenge!

Exposure to pollution from emissions from the fossil fuel industries and climate change increases the likelihood of autism, Alzheimer’s, and other neurological dysfunctions.

Come join French Teacher and yoga instructor Maud Mangin for this family friendly yoga class and learn the names of animal poses in French! No experience necessary, space is limited. At TRCCS and TRVCS, part of becoming a conscientious world citizen is developing the awareness of other cultures via language. We know that a young child’s brain is malleable and it is the perfect time to create new and unique synapses via language immersion classes. Introducing World Languages at a young age is one of the unique and exceptional elements of our pedagogical approach to education. Come join the fun and get your wiggles out.

Learn the basics of backyard composting. Learn bin selection, how to’s, materials needed, and troubleshooting. Leave ready to get started with your backyard composting.

You want to transform your energy hog into a net zero energy building? How do you get the biggest bang for your buck? Get the answers with this case study, featuring a 1902 masonry two flat in Chicago.

The Great Lakes Energy Education Center houses several of NWTC’s Energy Based Programs and was built with NET ZERO potential in mind. Join us to explore our progress along that path.

Determine if hybrid or electric vehicles are right for you. Examination of options, trends, reliability, resources, and cost saving strategies for HV/EV purchases.

A more in depth guide to investing with your values and how you can have an impact through your investments. See examples of a values questionnaire and comparative portfolios.

This training will focus on the proper selection and sizing of battery banks for off-grid & grid-connected systems. Integration and proper setup of Rolls LFP lithium models in new and existing systems, including charge programming adjustments, installation, inspection, and programming of charging set points for systems using traditional deep cycle models.

Learn how to measure sunlight with us! You’ll master the use of a pyranometer (classic tool of the trade) and learn how to use our well-prepared lessons to teach with it in your classroom.

How can agriculture be part of the solution for the climate crisis? What crops should we be growing the next 30 years with projected climate changes to our state? Come taste the change of our future!

Are you solar-curious? Join the MREA’s Grow Solar team as they take you through solar 101, its financial implications, and considerations for getting solar for your property. This discussion will primarily focus on residential but small business property owners can join too. Please note, that depending on your state and utility, it will vary what solar would look like for you, but let us get you started on your solar journey.

Learn about the steps you can take to save on your energy bills and get questions about your bill answered. Find out about more savings opportunities to come via the Inflation Reduction Act.

Local governments across the state are working together to accelerate a clean energy economy. They are collaborating to influence state agencies while also sharing local strategies—so that every community can go further faster.

Come learn how to make truly non-toxic sustainable paints and finishes with items from local stores. It is a very fun and inexpensive process. We also cover the reality of store bought “non-toxic” paints.

Building an “off-grid” home is a revealing experience. We offer insight into the challenges and rewards in the evolvement of such a home – from concept to completion.

Pay off the mortgage. Power your farm with renewable energy. Grow your own food. Craft your version of the good life by addressing food, energy and finances. Join this lively timeline journey.

Learn how to start a fire in the woods without matches. Class size is limited. Family-friendly activity.

The Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum presents Renewable Energy Pinwheels. Learn about the different types of renewable energy and create a pinwheel.

Are you thinking about adding solar to your home? What about battery storage for your existing solar system? In this session, you’ll learn the basics of solar financing, things to consider when vetting financing options and what to expect as you work through the financing process.

Exploring the benefits how solar PV+energy storage systems can provide performance and value for both homes and businesses.

Fungi can be used to fight climate change by helping to store carbon in the soil. Fungi also help plants deal with both drought and heat.

Learn how to write a successful advocacy op-ed for newspaper publication from the staff of The Progressive, which has been conducting workshop tutorials on this skill set since 1993.

What can a bicycle possibly carry? Explore the world of bicycle-powered delivery and learn about tribulations and triumphs from Trevor Roark’s story of founding and growing Curbwise LLC in Central WI.

Notwithstanding pro-clean energy policies, learn why solar + wind projects face an uphill struggle against entrenched interests and misguided activists across the Midwest, and how to combat it.

Dane County is leading in climate action. The Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change is taking a leadership role in helping to reduce our carbon emissions and spur action across the county.

Learn how to air seal and insulate an old or new home’s exterior with 6-12″ of insulation without disturbing the interior. How to use the latest air, water & vapor barriers to allow walls to breath.

The what, why, and how of utilizing Geothermal heat pumps to heat and cool your home. How installing a geothermal heat pump not only is environmentally friendly but cost-effective as well.

Moving away from the city and off the grid is a dream for many folks, but it can turn into a nightmare. Dan has lived off grid for 33 years and provides a fun reality check on off-grid living.

Use the Solar Pathfinder yourself! Learn how to teach your students with this solar tool of the trade. Students will enjoy this well prepared, intuitive, earth, space, and solar science lesson.

Join us in this watercolor painting class using a technique that is commonly practiced in Waldorf classrooms across the globe. We use all natural paints to create beautiful abstract color combination creations. This approach to watercolor painting begins in our classrooms in Early Childhood and evolves to become more refined through 8th grade. Please join our staff in this relaxing and “fool proof” method of exploring color and form. Kids of all ages are welcome.

Explore what can happen when imagination and recycling come together in the new children’s book Porcupine and Frog, Trash or Treasure. The author will read the book and then lead a recycling activity, making Shrinky Dinks. Welcome to the 80s, kiddos.

Energy storage is the key to obtaining the full benefits of renewable energy sources. Commercial energy clients stand to profit significantly by the strategic employment of solar + storage systems by obtaining the greatest “stack” of services that energy storage systems (ESS) can provide. Utilities can access huge benefits from the deployment of and access to others ESSs. Find out how ESSs are revolutionizing how utilities and clients interact and what these systems can do for renewable energy and a smart clean energy grid. ESS services, how to stack them, and system design and deployment will be covered at length. *3 Hour Extended Workshop – Ticket Required*

Learn about home heating using a masonry heater. Eric will discuss different types of masonry heating systems from DIY kits to professionally built custom heaters, as well as available options from heated benches, cooking, baking, heating hot water and floors, and even finishes.

How to Crochet with Loops and Rounds: Join Loops and Rounds Crochet for this engaging and useful demonstration where you will learn basic crochet techniques to get you started off on a new and relaxing hobby. Children 9 years and older are welcome to join independently, while young children can practice with their adults. Space is limited, first come first serve.

This session will teach participants how a school can use the CREATE Solar on Schools Toolkit and Madison College’s 10 Step Guide to create a solar roadmap and execute PV infrastructure projects.

Learn about sustainable swaps for your home & body, examine consumer habits and dismantle the zero waste industry as we take an in-depth look into low waste living. Witty, refreshing and informative!

After traveling 10,000 miles on solar ebikes, we’ll share about a newly designed solar panel clad e-trike that’s faster, more efficient, and more comfortable for long long stretches.

MadiSUN and MREA held two “Solar 100” training sessions, aimed at increasing qualified solar workers in the community. This workshop will be a description and overview of the sessions and their impact.

Carve a whistle or small container. Class size is limited. Family-friendly activity.

June is the ideal time to plan your fall garden. How to plan for and plant frost-tolerant, cool-wether crops that will be ready to harvest for salads and greens in October, November, & December.

With so many thoughts on how to achieve the best thermal envelope we are often left with prohibitively expensive or complicated ideas. This presentation will simplify the process.

This workshop will cover pathways into the clean energy workforce.  Andrew Holmstrom will share his entry into the industry, helpful pathways to establishing a career, and what it takes to make it happen.  You can expect to walk away with a clear understanding of the vast array of jobs Wisconsin’s booming clean energy workforce, and a few tips to join the movement.

In late 2021, Illinois passed one of the most comprehensive and equitable climate and clean energy bills in the nation. It sets a goal for 100% carbon-free energy by 2030, dedicates over $100m per year for equitable workforce and contractor development, and overhauls the system of regulating and managing electric utilities. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg of the 956 page bill. Come join this session to hear from folks who were on the ground building and now implementing this bill.

Eighty-five percent of herbs are imported. Discuss how to choose herbal remedies grown closer to home that have a long-lasting effect on the sustainability of the planet and your health.

Gary Gage, NABCEP PV Installation Professional, will demonstrate a working Energy Storage System with a Sol-Ark inverter, Homegrid LiFePO4 battery, and Savant smart load management.

Dreaming of a simpler life? Join environmental engineer and author, David Welder, as he attempts to address all your questions about off-grid living, renewable energy and the environment.

This will be a description of The Natural Path Sanctuary at The Farley Center for Peace Justice and Sustainability in Verona, W. Answers the questions what is a green cemetary and how to operate one.

Learn the basics of growing insects for human food and animal feed. Experienced insect farmers share techniques and advice for those interested in insect agriculture as a source of sustainable protein.

Stop by an all-ages demo to experiment hands-on with a personal-size solar panel. Use it to light lights or turn a fan, try casting a shadow, then add in a battery to make a complete solar system.

Join the Portage County Solid Waste Director as she leads you on a journey to recycle right, debunk recycling myths, reduce WishCycling, and answer your recycling questions.

What is a Microgrid? What is a Smart Grid? Learn the basics while inside NWTC’s portable microgrid trailer that is helping to power the Fair and charge your EV.

Would you like to ride your bicycle year-round but don’t know how? Trevor Roark, a bike advocate and year-round bike pilot for Curbwise LLC will help you overcome barriers, real and perceived. Let’s ride!

Real examples of solar purchase/installs gone bad & what can help you have a successful solar experience. This workshop is a great fit for 1st time buyers.

This workshop will cover and answer questions about small wind turbine designs, operation, power production, tower types, tower erection, siting, costs, and complimenting solar in off-grid and backup.

Everyone can be a leader—even you! Whether in big or small ways, what matters most is leading with kindness and generosity. The book will be available for sale during the event.

This session will discuss the requirements of the NEC Article 705 that will effect how you interconnect your power production system. It doesn’t matter if it is solar, wind, micro-hydro, etc.

Process intensification (PI) is a design concept with transformative prospects for the energy industries. Learn PI principles, state-of-art examples, and how to apply PI for better design.

Tesla is seen as a pioneer in the electric vehicle market. An owner provides advantages, disadvantages, and opportunities for Tesla and other electric vehicle companies.

A panel discussion about how technology advances, federal funding through the IRA and the need for trained workers throughout the solar industry is affecting how we teach solar.

What is Earth Art? See on site examples and then create your own Earth Art installation using found natural objects from the MREA grounds.

Improper insulation and air sealing can lead to ice dams, drafty rooms, pest intrusion, and poor air quality. We will discuss solutions to improve the overall comfort in your home and business.

Using live animals, puppets/toys, songs, sign-language, and hands-on fun, we will examine frogs & snakes up close!

We need to get off all fossil fuels, including gas, not just for electricity, but heating too. This presentation will talk about the issues, challenges and opportunities, and how we get there.

Survival Skills – learn to make string. Class size is limited. Family-friendly activity.

Learn how to power your home from your car in an emergency power situation. Special emphasis on hybrids and EVs., including DIY and what’s available commercially now and in the near future.

50 more years of conventional agriculture may irreversibly damage the soil ecosystem. In contrast, regenerative agriculture can rebuild soil much faster than nature without compromising the ecosystem.

As we decarbonize power production, we must do so at the correct scale and acceleration to meet climate goals. Now, consumers can participate in and benefit from this power transition too.

Schools going solar for the first time can feel overwhelmed about the technology and process. This workshop will cover solar basics, share solar project examples and resources for getting started.

When it comes to the factors that sustain and restore our health, nothing tops sleep. I will present drug-free natural and sustainable tools you can use tonight to improve your ability to sleep.

Small wind turbines can be an excellent addition to solar for an off-grid home, but there are many pitfalls that can turn it into an expensive hassle. This reality check sets the windy facts straight.

Mary and Steve Hoyer designed and built a conventional aging-in-place home in Salem, IA. Using standard materials, they reached a HERS rating of 6, and with minimal embedded energy materials.

The MREA has built a new curriculum for individuals who want basic training in solar PV. The new curriculum is ideal for high school students and community groups.

Domestic hot water plumbing is easy: trunk line and branches. But is it energy efficient? No! Learn about hot water distribution systems that are water- materials- and energy-efficient.

Based on his published book, Grow Lettuce in Your Living Room, Victor Zaderej (co-author) will discuss the simplest and most economical methods for growing food indoors year-round to feed your family.

To address climate change we are shifting the energy system to replace hydrocarbons with green hydrogen. Green hydrogen is hydrogen made by splitting water with renewable energy.

Navigating the world of rebates & incentives for clean energy is a challenge. Learn how to affordably finance clean energy projects, take advantage of federal incentives and research local programs.

Rocks often have a story to tell and rockhounding is a great outdoor family activity. Learn how to identify rocks/fossils, where to find them and what can be done with them. Find a rock/fossil, too.

NoWhere Vans is presenting Solar for Beginners. During this 2-hour workshop we will have participants in small groups. NoWhere Vans staff will explain the basics, and then let everyone get to work building out systems with Victron components on pre-cut boards with pre-terminated wires. The experience will be completed by hooking up a solar panel and pumping sun juice into a battery. Should be fun!

A basic guide in the many areas of fossil fuels. There are dangers to human health & the environment from extraction through transport to production. We’ll talk finance, lack of regulations, and more.

Granddaddy of renewable energy, windmills shaped rural America, and still work today! Brief history & info on water pumping, repair & restoration. Bryce Black, LoTec Windmill Service, Arkansaw, WI.

Hear from Forward! Marching Band about how they come together in music and spectacle to unite communities, support social causes, and bring joy to people in the streets.

Brief history of EVsMy experience with the Chevy Volt over the last five years
The changes we
made to the Volt
The Cadillac ELR
Our love for this. Vehicle platform

Learn how we can help you measure, control and reduce energy consumption and costs within the industrial, commercial and public sectors.

Introductory workshop, learn what solar electric/PV is, what it can do for you, system types, mounting options, performance, costs/benefits, and the next steps to implement a system.

Come learn how to make 100% non-toxic playdough! Fun for kids of all ages.

Find out how your school district can leverage funding from MREA Solar on Schools and free on-site professional development for teachers to reduce electric utility costs and enhance student learning.

Teaching your children should be fun and engaging for both the student and teacher. A veteran homeschooler will discuss finding and using resources that take a lesson to the next level.

How/what to do to get to Net Zero Energy for new and existing homes. By reducing the energy loads, it uses much less renewable energy, saves money, and makes the home livable in weather extremes.

Why and How to Grow Your Own Vegetable Seeds: A quick review of basic plant biology & general seed-growing principles; then focus on the “how to” of saving seeds, starting with the easiest.

We will summarize progress to date of SolarShare WI Coop, including updates on Wisconsin’s first cooperatively owned community solar farms near Mauston WI. After that, engage in Q&A with attendees.

Join the owners of Fields & Flora and learn how to make a flower crown with Wisconsin flowers and grasses.  Each participant will create their own grass crown and then cover it with the flowers of their choosing. This event is for the entire family! *90 Min Extended Workshop – Ticket Required*

Biomass and wood heating in Wisconsin are great solutions for high energy load locations. Karl from Sustainable Heating will discuss options for small to large wood and biomass heating projects.

Learn how to easily make biochar and how it can save the world. Biochar is carbon made out of organic matter, which can double your crops/garden productivity while reducing fertilizer by 50%.

SKIP is a program that connects aspiring homesteaders with older folks looking for someone to take over their property. It allows you to learn skills and prove your worth to potential benefactors.

Come learn how to make natural non-toxic paints. Come play and have fun!

Learn to bring mushrooms into your kitchen as well as medicine chest. Tips on sourcing mushrooms as well as transforming them into nourishing food as well as healing medicine will be shared.

Learn how to start a fire in the woods without matches. Class size is limited. Family-friendly activity.

Intersectionality and cooperation are antidotes to divide and conquer. WNPJ Board Member, Dena Eakles discusses the need for individual empowerment to promote humanity today. Learn practical skills.

A recent study shows what a zero-carbon future looks like for Wisconsin. Andrew will provide an overview of modeling results and policies needed to get there by 2050.

Learn how to make a home accessible, adaptable for future needs, and healthful. Identify potential obstacles and hazards. Find solutions and chose chemical-free, eco-friendly materials and finishes.

Learn why electrification can help fight climate change and how it saves money, reduces toxic air pollution in your home, and can reduce America’s annual carbon pollution by up to 15%.

RENEW Wisconsin staff will summarize their recent report on solar land use. Attendees will better understand how solar can sustain Wisconsin’s agricultural economy through the clean energy transition.

New textile production takes a toll on the environment. Decrease your dependence on new textiles by learning about ways to mend, repair, rejuvenate, and repurpose what you already have and love.

Solar PV isn’t a magic, bill-eliminating miracle, but it can be a terrific investment. Join Woody and Matt from Northwind as they navigate a variety of myths (good & bad) about the reality of residential solar PV.

Learn about the Campus Solar Analysis being done by students at UW-Madison. Students in Helios, a sustainability organization, have developed a model that can estimate the available Solar Resource.

Using songs, sign-language, humor, live turtles and hands-on materials, we will examine up close the wonder of turtles.

Moving Beyond Tree to Table: Workshop will focus on the roles of urban wood, their importance and utilization in communities, and ways in which we all benefit from using locally sourced lumber.

Learn the basics of WI sales and use tax from a former auditor. Ask your questions about what to tax, what causes an audit, or anything sales/use tax related you don’t understand!

Children will learn about the life of a tree through tree activities and listen to a story on the life of a tree. Children attending will receive a package of tree seeds to take home and plant.

Learn how getting lowest energy consumption when heating with a heat pump requires a different “thermostat setting” strategy and how your utility bill might go down if you shut off your natural gas.

Hands-and-minds-on to build a composter (mostly from salvaged materials). Help nurture life-enabling soil. You may want to take a compost kit home. After about 50 years, this composter goes to soil.

Learn about our statewide project to build a united movement for peace, justice, sustainability, and democracy. We are in a state of emergency, and we must organize and meet the crises together!

An introduction to communing with the natural world by participating in mindful reconnection with nature activities, including why it’s important for our health/well-being as well as the planet’s.

Energy is a basic need, but for some, paying utility bills is a hardship. We’ll look at where and why this is, and what can be done about it.

Learn how to reduce waste by choosing non-toxic and biodegradable materials, minimize cut-offs using locally sourced and salvaged materials, and recycling. Say NO to a dumpster!

Live a life as an environmentalist, but without knowing and planning, you may go out with a BIG carbon footprint. Learn to reduce it by water cremation, conservation burial, and/or human composting.

Come make your own journals from Ellie Pooh (elephant manure) paper, with a very simple journal design.

Environmental and conservation orgs should consider decarbonizing operations to be aligned with their mission and conserve funds for their mission. I will discuss two conservation groups’ innovations.

Get up to date on the active policy discussions to help address high household energy burden for utility customers. Learn about cases currently in front of the PSC in Madison and other initiatives.

Vernon County Energy District, Wisconsin’s first energy district will present on what makes an energy district, and why this community-based approach is so important and effective.

Saving the Earth is complicated – but is it? This workshop will outline common sense solutions to global climate change that everyone can do. Information & activities for the whole family.

Each of us will be expected to disconnect our fossil fuel appliances and convert to a heat pump in an all electric home. What kind of building alterations will this take?

Does the skyrocketing number of hybrid and electric vehicles present safety concerns for drivers and first responders? An examination of the present and future impacts for our communities.

We will explore the differences between native plants, host plants, and nectar plants, as well as plant insect interactions. Then we will talk about creating cohesive native landscapes at home.

Join our TRCCS staff and students for a teacher-led sing along and circle time where we will play circle games to engage the whole being. At TRCCS children practice gross motor skills and singing to awaken and enliven their bodies in preparation for more intellectual learning. In Waldorf classrooms we see that balancing movement and arts with intellectual pursuits helps to support a balanced and conscientious development. Circle time fosters meaningful social interactions and is practiced through the elementary grades.

In this workshop, you will learn how PV systems work. Identify and discuss four types, components, applications, and limitations of each system type. Define the solar window, energy efficiency recommendations, and estimate system load.

Should you or shouldn’t you ground your electrical system? Does the answer change if it is a wind turbine, solar field, or your residence? We will also discuss the rules (NEC) for grounding.