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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200924T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200924T190000
DTSTAMP:20200922T223639Z
CREATED:20200922T223639Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200922T223639Z
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SUMMARY:Piper Maddox Green Careers Professional Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Piper Maddox is one of the fastest growing Cleantech staffing partners in the U.S.\, recruiting exclusively into the renewable energy industry. \nAs an invested supporter of Austin’s clean energy professionals\, Piper Maddox is taking an unparalleled step to support Solar Austin’s Pathways to Clean Energy Careers program. On September 24th\, Piper Maddox is donating their time\, resources\, and expertise to host the Green Careers Professional Workshop. This is an amazing opportunity for all students who are interested in working in clean energy to receive feedback on their resumes and cover letters and to hone their interview skills with professional recruiters.  \nWe request that interested students officially apply to the Pathways program before attending the resume review and internship prep workshop. If you have questions or are unable to attend but would like feedback on your resume\, cover letter\, and/or interview skills\, please reach out to Solar Austin’s Program Manager\, Beryl Dann at beryl.dann@solaraustin.org.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/piper-maddox-green-careers-professional-workshop/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Class/Skill-Building,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200922T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200922T190000
DTSTAMP:20200916T203705Z
CREATED:20200916T203705Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200916T203705Z
UID:44750-1600794000-1600801200@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:September Happy Hour\, Revising the Austin Climate Equity Plan
DESCRIPTION:Solar Austin is excited to announce the first in a three-part happy hour series centered around local\, federal\, and state energy policy. September’s happy hour will be a unique opportunity to learn about and discuss the City of Austin’s Climate Equity Plan with the Climate Program Manager himself: Zach Baumer! \nRatified by Austin City Council in 2015\, the Austin Community Climate Plan was originally a pledge to reduce the city’s carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050. In pursuit of this ambitious goal\, the city implemented a number of strategies to lower emissions across Austin’s energy\, transportation\, and waste management sectors. Five years in\, it’s time to take stock! Join us as we look back as a community at what strategies worked well and what parts of the plan require improvements.  \nSolar Austin encourages you to read the Climate Equity Plan (download the full version here + the summary document here). The ‘Speak Up’ period during which citizens can offer their input to the Office of Sustainability closes on September 30th\, so we hope that this happy hour not only informs\, but inspires you as a citizen to use your voice!
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/september-happy-hour-revising-the-austin-climate-equity-plan/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Happy Hour,Lecture/Guest Speaker,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200825T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200825T190000
DTSTAMP:20200819T204749Z
CREATED:20200819T204749Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200819T204749Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour\, An Equitable Clean Energy Jobs Celebration!
DESCRIPTION:Solar Austin is doing something a bit different this month… Instead of our usual happy hour\, we’re excited to invite you to the closing celebration of the trailblazing Equitable Clean Energy Jobs (ECEJ) Program!  \nLaunched in partnership by Solar Austin and Huston-Tillotson University (HT)\, the ECEJ Program aimed to improve diversity and cultural inclusivity in Austin’s growing clean energy sector through an innovative structured internship matching process. Executed in the midst of a global pandemic\, an economic recession\, and the historic Black Lives Matter movement\, the ECEJ initiative was a leap towards a stronger and more equitable local workforce\, in a sector that is nationally over 70% white and male.  \nAs summer internships come to a close\, we’re excited to celebrate the six amazing interns and five clean energy companies who made this pilot program possible! Join us as we reflect with program participants on what was accomplished during this pilot phase\, what challenges were faced\, and what still needs to be done to lower the barrier of entry for passionate individuals who seek to make a difference in this field and in their communities.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-an-equitable-clean-energy-jobs-celebration/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Happy Hour,Networking,Party With a Purpose
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200714T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200714T183000
DTSTAMP:20200701T233847Z
CREATED:20200701T233847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200701T233847Z
UID:43938-1594746000-1594751400@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour\, Featuring Michael Brune
DESCRIPTION:Solar Austin is excited to announce next month’s featured speaker: Michael Brune\, the executive director of the Sierra Club!  \nAn internationally acclaimed author\, speaker\, and environmental activist\, Michael will be joining Solar Austin on July 14th to talk about his work leading the nationwide movement to move beyond fossil fuels to clean energy.  \nMichael has served as the Sierra Club’s executive director since 2010. Under his leadership\, the Sierra Club has grown to more than 3.5 million supporters\, and its Beyond Coal campaign has been recognized as one of the most effective in environmental history. Prior to joining the Sierra Club\, Michael led the Rainforest Action Network for seven years\, during which the organization won more than a dozen key environmental commitments from America’s largest corporations. \nMichael holds degrees in economics and finance from West Chester University in Pennsylvania and is a regular contributor to the Huffington Post. His critically acclaimed book\, Coming Clean: Breaking America’s Addiction to Oil and Coal (2010)\, details a plan for a new green economy that will create good paying jobs\, promote environmental justice\, and bolster national security. Michael and his wife\, Mary\, attribute their ongoing passion for environmental activism in part to their concern that their children inherit a healthy world. 
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-featuring-michael-brune/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Happy Hour,Lecture/Guest Speaker,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200616T163000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200616T180000
DTSTAMP:20200603T174509Z
CREATED:20200603T174509Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200603T174509Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour\, Featuring Bill McKibben
DESCRIPTION:On June 16th\, Bill McKibben will be joining Solar Austin to talk about his work fighting the most pressing environmental issues of our times.  \nBill McKibben is a founder of 350.org\, the first planet-wide\, grassroots climate change movement\, which has organized twenty thousand rallies around the world in every country save North Korea\, spearheaded the resistance to the Keystone Pipeline\, and launched the fast-growing fossil fuel divestment movement. \nA renowned writer\, McKibben was awarded the Right Livelihood Prize in 2014\, sometimes called the ‘alternative Nobel.’ His 1989 book The End of Nature is regarded as the first book for a general audience about climate change\, and has appeared in 24 languages— he’s gone on to write a dozen more books.  \nThe Schumann Distinguished Scholar in Environmental Studies at Middlebury College and a fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences\, McKibben was the 2013 winner of the Gandhi Prize and the Thomas Merton Prize\, and holds honorary degrees from 18 colleges and universities. Foreign Policy named him to their inaugural list of the world’s 100 most important global thinkers\, and the Boston Globe said he was “probably America’s most important environmentalist.” \nA former staff writer for the New Yorker\, he writes frequently for a wide variety of publications around the world\, including the New York Review of Books\, National Geographic\, and Rolling Stone. He lives in the mountains above Lake Champlain with his wife\, the writer Sue Halpern\, where he spends as much time as possible outdoors . In 2014\, biologists honored him by naming a new species of woodland gnat— Megophthalmidia mckibbeni–in his honor. \nTo read more about our June Happy Hour featured speaker\, please visit: www.billmckibben.com
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-featuring-bill-mckibben/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Happy Hour,Lecture/Guest Speaker,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200512T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200512T181500
DTSTAMP:20200422T174644Z
CREATED:20200422T174644Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200422T174644Z
UID:42788-1589302800-1589307300@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: The Past\, Present\, and Future of Austin Energy
DESCRIPTION:Mark your calendars! On May 12th\, Solar Austin will be hosting our first virtual happy hour with Austin Energy’s Customer Renewable Solutions Manager\, Tim Harvey.  \nCome along as Tim walks us through the 35 year historical voyage of renewables at Austin Energy. Tim will outline the challenges encountered and discuss the adjustments\, improvements\, and lessons learned along the way.  \nAfter journeying through the historical evolution\, Tim will then give us a glimpse of the future\, detailing the ways that Austin Energy’s current renewable energy programs and offerings are setting the stage for the city’s renewable energy future. From the comfort of your home\, please join us as we laugh\, lament\, and learn about Austin’s successes\, failures\, and challenges as our city gears up to address current community needs\, through customer driven and experience informed programs. \nTuesday\, May 12th\, 2020 from 5:00 PM to 6:15 PM\nOnline via ZOOM\nRSVP and Get More Details Here\nAbout the Speaker: Tim Harvey is the Customer Renewable Solutions Manager for Austin Energy.  Passionate about Texas’ clean energy transition\, environmental conservation\, and his Austin community\, Tim has worked with Austin Energy in the Solar Program since 2006. Over the course of his career\, Tim has played key roles in the development and operations of Austin Energy’s renewable program offerings and solar rate designs. Tim not only talks the talk\, but walks the walk\, participating in Community Solar and driving an electric vehicle since 2011.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-the-past-present-and-future-of-austin-energy/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Happy Hour,Lecture/Guest Speaker,Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20200409T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20200409T193000
DTSTAMP:20200409T184811Z
CREATED:20200406T171038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20200409T184811Z
UID:42664-1586455200-1586460600@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Equitable Clean Energy Jobs Program: Internship Matching Night!
DESCRIPTION:Students who wish to participate in the program are strongly encouraged to join from a computer\, tablet or smartphone and enable video\, as this is intended to replace an in-person event. Go to: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/344195853  \nYou can also dial in using your phone: +1 (571) 317-3112    Access Code: 344-195-853  \nNew to GoToMeeting? Get the app now to be ready when the event starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/344195853 \n  \nThis summer\, Solar Austin and Huston-Tillotson University (HT) are partnering to launch an innovative internship matching program. At its core\, the Equitable Clean Energy Jobs Program focuses on improving diversity and cultural inclusivity in Austin’s growing clean energy sector and providing students with a high-quality professional advancement opportunity in a rapidly expanding green jobs market. \nOn April 9\, it’s time to connect with the internship employers and clean energy industry professionals\, hear about the companies and positions being offered\, and get matched with a paid summer internship.  \nRSVP is required to be matched with employers for interviews and is appreciated for all other attendees as well. We also request that interested students fill out a program application before attending. \nGreater diversity\, equity\, and inclusivity in the workforce are proven to create stronger\, more resilient\, and profitable organizations. Over the last decade\, Austin has grown a thriving local clean energy industry; however\, more could be done to improve diversity in the workforce. That’s why Solar Austin and HT have joined forces\, and thanks to a grant from the City of Austin\, have spearheaded the Equitable Clean Energy Jobs Program! While many clean energy companies name diversity and equity as top business priorities\, the industry’s reliance on word-of-mouth recruitment techniques and general unfamiliarity about the industry’s viable career pathways within educational and training programs has resulted in a workforce that does not accurately represent the people of Austin. This program seeks to bridge that gap and be that foot-in-the-door for students. Our goal is to help facilitate pathways for underrepresented students into green jobs and to develop a set of best practices for clean energy companies that want to improve diversity and inclusivity in their recruitment\, hiring\, and retention of staff. \nFor more information about the program or matching event\, please contact Solar Austin’s Program Manager\, Beryl Dann at beryl.dann@solaraustin.org.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/equitable-clean-energy-jobs-program-internship-matching-night/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20191212T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20191212T220000
DTSTAMP:20191113T001715Z
CREATED:20191113T001715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20191113T001715Z
UID:41707-1576173600-1576188000@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:12th Annual Austin Green Holiday Party
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Barr Mansion and the Shades of Green Radio Show –\nBarr Mansion & the Shades of Green Radio Show Present\nThe 12th Annual Austin Green Holiday Party \nThursday\, December 12th\, 2019\n6:00pm-10:00pm \nHosted and Sponsored by Barr Mansion\n10463 Sprinkle Rd.\, Austin\, TX 78754 (www.barrmansion.com) \nAdvance Tickets $25.00 ($30.00 at the door)\n(Tickets include appetizers\, dinner\, all drinks and live music) \nCo-Hosted by:\nShades of Green Radio Show\nPublic Citizen Texas\nAustin EcoNetwork\nEARTHx\nEarth Day ATX\nU.S.G.B.C. Texas\nTexas Solar Energy Society\nTexas Campaign for the Environment\nCenter for Maximum Potential Building Systems\nClean Water Action\n350 Austin\nTexas Electric Transportation Resources Alliance\nSierra Club\nSolar Austin\nAnd introducing new co-hosts-\nWomen of Renewable Industries & Sustainable Energy\nHistorical Foundation for Texas Renewable Energy\nNature Conservancy \nPlease join us for “the Austin green mixer of the year”\, our 12th annual\, on 12/12! Hosted this year by 17 great organizations\, this event is a fun place for area environmentalists to come together\, refresh and prepare ourselves for the new year as a team. \nMost do not have time to attend a dozen December parties and our partners are hard at work\, sometimes lacking the bandwidth for a great holiday event. So\, for 12 years running\, we’ve been coming together build community\, cross-pollinate our teams and get ready for the coming year together. \nExperience how our hosts and sponsors Barr Mansion are at the nexus of a merging of the environmental and food movements while enjoying a family style dinner featuring a variety of their seasonal\, all-organic favorites. We are also generously sponsored this year by Texas Beer Company\, other sponsors TBA soon. \nMagical music by our kind friends Seu Jacinto\, a group introducing and developing traditional Northeastern Brazilian culture to Central Texas. Seu Jacinto pays homage to the masters of the Brazilian folk musical traditions of forró\, coco\, cavalo marinho\, and many other Northeast Brazilian rhythms. \nThe Evening’s Barr Mansion Menu!\nHot Cheddar Polenta with charred tomato salsa and crème fraiche\nSweet chili glazed popcorn chicken with spicy caramel corn \nGreen and Garden Salad – fresh farm greens and vegetables tossed with citrus-date vinaigrette\nFocaccia with cranberry and caramelized onion \nCauliflower Puttanesca – savory tomatoes and capers\nMarinated Tofu with mushrooms and garlic\nVegan Pad Thai Rice Noodles – cashew sauce\, onions tofu\, sliced veggies and herbs \nBrownies w/white chocolate chip\nMacarons vanilla bean with raspberry buttercream filling3
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/12th-annual-austin-green-holiday-party/
LOCATION:Barr Mansion\, 10463 Sprinkle Rd\, Austin\, TX\, 78754\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20191022T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20191022T200000
DTSTAMP:20191016T184717Z
CREATED:20191016T184717Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20191016T184717Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Electrified Mass Transit with Capital Metro
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Solar Austin –\nSustainability and climate action require much more than just solar\, so we’re branching out to spend time on another very important topic this month – public transportation. Transportation accounts for about a third of local greenhouse gas emissions and will be the largest source once Austin Energy is able to retire its portion of the coal-burning Fayette power plant. \nSo how do we make a dent in all that pollution? And how can we reclaim some of our time (and sanity) lost sitting in Austin’s ever worsening traffic? High capacity\, rapid\, convenient public transportation offers a solution. This has been an elusive goal for Austin over the years\, but Cap Metro\, with the support of the City of Austin\, is making another go at it in the form of Project Connect. The vision for Project Connect is an interconnected system of public transportation options that connect people to jobs\, education\, healthcare and the places they love. This system will include fully dedicated transitways\, enhanced MetroRail service\, MetroRapid corridors\, and more Park and Ride facilities. We’ll hear all about Project Connect from Joe Clemens\, Deputy Project Manager at Capital Metro. \nBut that’s not all! Cap Metro is also working to electrify its fleet of buses. This is great news for everyone concerned about local air pollution\, as well as climate change\, because emissions from diesel vehicles\, including buses is particularly harmful. Electric bus technology is now able to serve many of Cap Metro’s bus routes and will soon be able to serve the whole system. Rob Borowski\, CapMetro’s Sustainability Officer\, will present on the electrification initiative. \nRSVP and get more details here.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-electrified-mass-transit-with-capital-metro/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190924T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190924T200000
DTSTAMP:20190924T190236Z
CREATED:20190924T190236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190924T190236Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour with "Superpower" Author Russell Gold
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Solar Austin –\nFor our September happy hour\, acclaimed author and journalist Russell Gold will share the story of an audacious attempt to build the largest renewable energy project in the United States right here in Texas. Any transition from a North American power grid that uses mostly fossil fuels to one that is predominantly clean requires a massive building spree—billions of dollars’ worth. \nEnter Michael Skelly an infrastructure builder who began working on wind energy in 2000\, when many considered the industry a joke. Eight years later\, Skelly helped create the second largest wind power company in the United States—which was sold for $2 billion. Wind energy was no longer funny; it was well on its way to generating a substantial percentage of the electricity in the United States. \nOur happy hours are free\, but an RSVP and (optional) donation is appreciated.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-with-superpower-author-russell-gold/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190827T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190827T200000
DTSTAMP:20190821T161459Z
CREATED:20190821T161459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190821T161459Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Community Workshop: Solar for Low And Moderate Income Customers
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Solar Austin –\nWe’re doing something a bit different this month. Instead of our regular happy hour\, Solar Austin is hosting a community workshop to gather input on the topic of expanding access to solar. \nIn September\, a team that will include Austin Energy staff\, a couple members of the Solar Austin board and other solar policy experts will participate in a workshop hosted by the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI). This team of seven will focus on identifying ways to expand access to solar in Austin. We know that many of the people of color\, as well as renters and lower-income residents haven’t been able to. \nThe goal of the Solar Austin workshop will be to gather community input to help guide the team at the RMI workshop in September. We want to help develop solutions that address the needs\, concerns and aspirations of the community. \nHuston–Tillotson University has graciously offered to host this event and Solar Austin will provide food and drink. \nWHAT: Solar Austin Community Workshop on Expanding Access to Solar \nWHEN: Tues.\, Aug. 27\, 5:30 dinner and networking\, 6:00 presentation and discussion groups \nWHERE: Dickey-Lawless Science Building at Huston–Tillotson University (#1 on the map) \nRSPV is appreciated\, so we know how much food to buy. \nIn addition to a short presentation to share the basics about solar and some sample programs\, we’ll have facilitated group discussions to try to determine: \n\n\nlevel of awareness about solar among lower-income residents \n\n\nthe main barriers that keep lower-income residents from accessing solar \n\n\nany barriers specific to people of color \n\n\naspects of solar energy that excite people most \n\n\nthe most important features of a new solar program \n\n\n  \nAnyone who wants to contribute to this work is welcome\, but we especially hope to get people of color\, renters and lower-income residents involved in this conversation because those are the groups that have been underserved by the current solar programs. \nEnsuring equity in access to solar energy and other climate solutions is an important aspect of climate justice. Solar Austin is committed to making the benefits of solar energy accessible to everyone in the Austin community. \nWe hope you’ll join us and bring a friend\, family member or neighbor who falls into one of the underserved customer groups. \nSolar Austin Board of Directors \n——————————————- \nGetting there: Huston–Tillotson University can be accessed by several bus lines. If you drive\, there is free street parking on Chalmers Ave and Chicon St\, and in the Huston-Tillotson parking lot off Chalmers St between 8th St and 9½ St. \n\nFor regular updates on our Happy Hours and other work and more information about Solar Austin\, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook\, and sign up for our email list via solaraustin.org.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-community-workshop-solar-for-low-and-moderate-income-customers/
LOCATION:Dickey-Lawless Science Building at Huston-Tillotson University\, 900 Chicon St.\, Austin\, TX\, 78702\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190723T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190723T200000
DTSTAMP:20190718T024852Z
CREATED:20190718T024852Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190718T024852Z
UID:40893-1563903000-1563912000@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:July Solar Austin Happy Hour: ERCOT Electric Grid System Planning
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Solar Austin –\nGetting more large-scale solar and wind energy built in Texas requires a well-functioning electric grid. For our July happy hour\, Warren Lasher will explore emerging grid challenges and opportunities associated with balancing power generation and consumption within the Texas Interconnection\, one of four frequency-independent power grids in North America.\nThe Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is unique among these interconnections in so far as the balancing authority\, the interconnection and the regional transmission organization are all the same entity and physical system. In a recent feature on KUT\, Lasher likened ERCOT’s role as a reliability coordinator and balancing authority to John Bohnham’s role in Led Leppelin. Just as a drummer might need to maintain a tempo of 60 beats per minute\, ERCOT needs to maintain the heartbeat of the grid at 60 cycles per second.\nAbout Warren Lasher:\nAs Senior Director of System Planning for the Electric Reliability Council of Texas\, Inc. (ERCOT)\, Warren Lasher is responsible for transmission planning\, load forecasting and resource adequacy analyses for the ERCOT interconnection. Lasher has been at ERCOT for over fourteen years; before this he was employed by the Southern Company in Birmingham\, Alabama\, where he worked in the Engineering and the Planning organizations. Lasher has a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics\, and graduate degrees in Environmental Management and Computer Science.\nYou can RSVP here.\n___________________________________________________\nGetting to the event:\nPlease consider taking the bus to the happy hour. There are many buses within easy walking distance of Scholz Garten.​ Plan your trip here.​ If you drive\, State Parking Garages can be found next to\, behind\, and across from Scholz Garten. San Jacinto Blvd.\, 15th\, 16th\, 17th\, 18th\, and Trinity have parking garage entrances.\nFor regular updates on our Happy Hours and more information about Solar Austin\, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook\, and sign up for our email list via solaraustin.org.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/july-solar-austin-happy-hour-ercot-electric-grid-system-planning/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190621T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190621T210000
DTSTAMP:20190605T223632Z
CREATED:20190605T223632Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190605T223632Z
UID:39767-1561138200-1561150800@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:2019 Solar Austin Summer Solstice Celebration
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nWe are excited to invite you to Solar Austin’s second annual Summer Solstice Celebration! Please join us to celebrate our precious solar resources and community advocacy for renewable energy on the longest day of the year. \nWe’re passionate about solar policy and technology\, but we also like to have fun. Join us at Sauce Odyssey to celebrate and unwind! We will live music and free beer (courtesy of Texas Beer Company)\, and solar car racing for the kids (and fun-loving adults). Sauce Odyssey has delicious food – including vegan options – and an inviting shady location with plenty of seating\, hammocks and games.. \nCome have fun\, eat\, and drink\, while getting to know other members of our community of advocates right here in Austin. \nWe look forward to celebrating the solstice—and community—with you on June 21st! You can get your ticket here. \nP.S. We won’t have our regular happy hour event in June. \n\nSolar Austin’s mission is to accelerate the transition to clean\, renewable energy in Central Texas and expand access to the benefits of solar to everyone to build a healthy community and strong local economy. If you would like to make a donation to support our work\, you can do so by clicking the donate button on our website www.solaraustin.org. For regular updates on our events and policy happenings in Central Texas\, follow us on Twitter @solar_austin and on Facebook at @SolarAustin.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/2019-solar-austin-summer-solstice-celebration/
LOCATION:Sauce Odyssey\, 1403 E 7th St\, Austin\, TX\, 78702\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/media.theaustincommon.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/16154943/summer-solstice.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190528T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190528T200000
DTSTAMP:20190508T131958Z
CREATED:20190508T131958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190508T131958Z
UID:39444-1559064600-1559073600@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Clean Energy Credit Union
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nFor our May happy hour\, Amanda Bybee will share the story of the Clean Energy Credit Union (CECU)\, a first-of-its-kind financial institution dedicated to providing affordable financing for clean energy products or services\, such as EV purchases or home energy efficiency projects or solar retrofits. In addition to serving as a volunteer on the Supervisory Committee of the credit union\, Amanda worked to obtain the CECU’s federal charter as a not-for-profit\, tax-exempt cooperative that is democratically owned and controlled by its members on a one-vote-per-member basis. While the CECU is unique\, it is not Amanda’s first foray into deeply democratic co-operative business structures. \nAbout Amanda Bybee:  \nIn 2016\, Amanda helped to earn a SunShot Initiative award from the US Department of Energy to found the Amicus O&M Cooperative\, where she serves as CEO. This operations and maintenance cooperative brings together a network of service providers across the country to offer coordinated services for geographically distributed portfolios of solar assets. Its sister organization\, Amicus Solar\, is a member’s-owned buyers cooperative for solar installation companies. Both of these cooperatives are cultural and business offshoots of Colorado-based Namasté Solar\, an employee-owned and B Corp-certified solar EPC. Prior to joining Namasté Solar in 2006\, where she held numerous roles over an 11-year span\, Amanda worked as a “Jill-of-all-trades” at Austin-based Meridian Solar. Amanda started her solar career in 2003\, promoting renewable energy as the coordinator of Public Citizen’s Solar Austin Campaign.” \n  \nWhat are my parking options for the event? State Parking Garages can be found next to\, behind and across from Scholz Garten. San Jacinto Blvd.\, 15th\, 16th\, 17th\, 18th\, and Trinity have parking garage entrances. \n\n  \nAlthough our happy hours are free and open to all\, we hope you’ll consider donating to Solar Austin. Help us keep solar energy growing in the Austin area. You can purchase a ticket to the happy hour or go to our website\, solaraustin.org\, to donate and avoid fees. \nFor regular updates on our Happy Hours and more information about Solar Austin\, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook\, and sign up for our email list via solaraustin.org. \n 
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-clean-energy-credit-union/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190423T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190423T200000
DTSTAMP:20190416T132931Z
CREATED:20190416T132931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190416T132931Z
UID:39316-1556040600-1556049600@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Austin Energy’s SHINES Program
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nEnergy in a Smart City – What is going on in Austin? \nFor our April happy hour\, Karl Popham will share Austin Energy’s innovative efforts in the utility’s alignment with the city’s goals of Mobility\, Affordability\, and Health/Environment. This will include an update on the opportunities and challenges with the award-winning Austin SHINES deployment that integrated residential\, commercial\, and grid battery storage systems (to include vehicle to grid) with PV Solar under one “virtual power plant” dispatch system. Karl will also do a deep dive into Austin’s transportation electrification programs to included CapMetro’s Bus Fleet plans\, eScooters (love them/hate them?)\, grid integration\, low-income solutions\, new training opportunities\, autonomous driving rollout plans (Austin’s Smart Moblity Roadmap)\, and more. \nMore about Karl Popham:  \n A nationally recognized speaker\, research contributor\, and book co-author of “Smart Cities: Applications\, Technologies\, Standards & Driving Factors”\, Karl has lived in Austin since his teen years and is a longhorn graduate. Currently\, he is the Manager of Electric Vehicles & Emerging Technologies at Austin Energy and is the Principal Investigator on several U.S. Department of Energy funded and award-winning projects advancing transportation electrification\, renewables\, energy storage\, and “virtual power plant” technologies. He is the electrification lead for Austin’s Smart Mobility Roadmap that includes autonomous transportation and was a core member of the Mayor’s Smart City Challenge team. Previously he served as Austin Energy’s interim Chief Information Officer\, a Managing Director at Hewlett-Packard Services\, Director at Cap Gemini Ernst & Young\, and a Captain in the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. \n  \nAlthough our happy hours are free and open to all\, we hope you’ll consider donating to Solar Austin.  Help us keep solar energy growing in the Austin area.  You can purchase a ticket to the happy hour or go to our website\, solaraustin.org\, to donate and avoid fees. \nFor regular updates on our Happy Hours and more information about Solar Austin\, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook\, and sign up for our email list via solaraustin.org. \nFAQs \nWhat are my parking options for the event? \nState Parking Garages can be found next to\, behind and across from Scholz Garten. San Jacinto Blvd.\, 15th\, 16th\, 17th\, 18th\, and Trinity have parking garage entrances
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-austin-energys-shines-program/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190326T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190326T200000
DTSTAMP:20190312T210515Z
CREATED:20190312T210515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190312T210515Z
UID:38940-1553621400-1553630400@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: UT Austin Sustainability Master Plan
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nFor our March happy hour\, Jim Walker will give an overview of the UT Austin Sustainability Master Plan and specific initiatives related to energy and renewables.  He will share his perspective on how university efforts fit into the broader context of City of Austin and Austin Energy efforts\, as well as higher education in general.  The UT Austin Sustainability Master plan was adopted in 2016 and updated in 2018 and sets a goals for the university out to 2030.\nRSVP Here \nMore about Jim Walker:  \nJim Walker was appointed Director of Sustainability for the University of Texas at Austin in April\, 2009. He works closely with the President’s Sustainability Steering Committee on the UT Austin Sustainability Master Plan and is the university’s USGBC Liaison related to LEED and SITES on new capital projects. Jim has a Masters in Community and Regional Planning from the University of Texas at Austin and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners.  Jim currently serves on the boards of the Mueller Foundation\, the USGBC Texas Chapter\, and Earth Day Austin\, and recently served on the City of Austin Joint Sustainability Committee. Jim is originally from Oregon and accidentally moved to Austin in 1992. He was introduced to sustainability by Pliny Fisk and Gail Vittori at the Center for Maximum Potential Building Systems\, and soon after by Lars Stanley\, FAIA\, LEED AP and Girard Kinney\, AIA. \nWhat are my parking options for the event? \nState Parking Garages can be found next to\, behind and across from Scholz Garten. San Jacinto Blvd.\, 15th\, 16th\, 17th\, 18th\, and Trinity have parking garage entrances.  \nAlthough our happy hours are free and open to all\, we hope you’ll consider donating to Solar Austin.  Help us keep solar energy growing in the Austin area.  You can purchase a ticket to the happy hour or go to our website\, solaraustin.org\, to donate and avoid fees. \nFor regular updates on our Happy Hours and more information about Solar Austin\, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook\, and sign up for our email list via solaraustin.org.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-ut-austin-sustainability-master-plan/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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GEO:30.2776765;-97.7363215
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Scholz Garten 1607 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin TX United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1607 San Jacinto Blvd.:geo:-97.7363215,30.2776765
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190226T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190226T200000
DTSTAMP:20190206T034309Z
CREATED:20190206T034222Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190206T034309Z
UID:38622-1551202200-1551211200@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin February Happy Hour: Tour of Austin Central Library Green Features
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nWe’re switching things up a bit for our February happy hour.  We won’t be at Scholz Garten this month\, so don’t go there\, or you’ll be lonely. \nInstead\, we hope you’ll join us for an expert-guided look at the green features – including the on-site solar energy system – of the Austin Central Library. This LEED Platinum-certified building opened late October 2017 has the distinction of being the first new building with a solar array on the downtown sector of the electric grid\, which comes with added complications. \nBecause we want to do the tour before it gets dark\, we’ll be starting our program a bit earlier than usual. The presentation will start at 5:45\, but please join us even if you’ll be a bit late. \nThe lead architect Jonathan Smith\, of Lake Flato Architects\, and solar designer Bungane Mehlomakulu\, of Integral Group\, will be leading the tour and discussion. \nJonathan Smith\, AIA\, LEED AP BD+C\, is an Associate Partner at Lake Flato Architects. Jonathan’s designs foster meaningful and lasting relationships between building occupants and the natural environment\, demonstrating excellence in the art of building\, the science of sustainability and love for the natural landscape. Jonathan has a strong passion for transformative projects that have an impact beyond their property lines through environmental sustainability\, performance-based design and response to climate. Jonathan was Project Architect on the LEED Platinum 180\,000 square foot new Central Library in his hometown of Austin\, Texas. In 2018 the Austin Central Library was named one of Time Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places. Jonathan is currently working on projects in Texas\, California and Hawaii. \n Bungane Mehlomakulu\, PE\, LEED AP BD+C\, is a Managing Principal at Integral Group in Austin. Bungane is a design principal working at the boundary between architecture\, engineering\, and sustainability to deliver a balanced\, efficient\, and meaningful services to customers and clients. His passion for sustainable building design and operation made him an expert in passive strategies including natural ventilation\, daylight harvesting\, plug load reductions\, and solar control and the application of energy efficient technologies\, including radiant floors\, displacement ventilation\, and chilled beams. \nWe hope to see you at the library! \nSolar Austin Board of Directors
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-february-happy-hour-tour-of-austin-central-library-green-features/
LOCATION:Austin Central Library\, 710 W. César Chávez St.\, Austin\, TX\, 78701\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20190122T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20190122T200000
DTSTAMP:20190116T195926Z
CREATED:20190116T195926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20190116T195926Z
UID:38537-1548178200-1548187200@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: The Future Is Bright
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nThis month we will be joined by Rich Clark\, Director of Development and Engineering at 7X Energy\, who will discuss utility-scale solar development with a focus on the Texas market and how new technology is helping lead the solar industry into a bright future. \nState Parking Garages can be found next to\, behind and across from Scholz Garten. San Jacinto Blvd.\, 15th\, 16th\, 17th\, 18th\, and Trinity have parking garage entrances. \nAlthough our happy hours are free and open to all\, we hope you’ll consider donating to Solar Austin. Help us keep solar energy growing in the Austin area. You can purchase a ticket to the happy hour or go to our website\, solaraustin.org\, to donate and avoid fees. For regular updates on our Happy Hours and more information about Solar Austin\, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook\, and sign up for our email list via solaraustin.org.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-the-future-is-bright/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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GEO:30.2776765;-97.7363215
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Scholz Garten 1607 San Jacinto Blvd. Austin TX United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1607 San Jacinto Blvd.:geo:-97.7363215,30.2776765
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20181127T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20181127T200000
DTSTAMP:20181114T234552Z
CREATED:20181114T234552Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181114T234552Z
UID:38174-1543339800-1543348800@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Equity and Inclusion In The Solar Industry
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nThis month we are partnering with the Solar Business Festival for a panel on how to make the solar industry more inclusive\, equitable\, and diverse for our November 2018 Happy Hour. \nThe panel will examine barriers to systematically make businesses\, nonprofits\, and the industry more welcoming\, inclusive and accountable spaces for underrepresented people. The speakers will examine why people of color\, women\, LBGTQ+ people\, and others often remain excluded from businesses’ recruitment strategies and leadership development\, and offer some best practices understanding and overcoming the root causes of employment inequity. \nWe are honored to hear from:\n– Rubén Cantú\, Director of Inclusive Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Texas at Austin;\n– Jenn Goodwillie\, Counsel at Counsel at EDP Renewables North America (EDPR)\, representing WRISE (Women in Renewable Industries and Sustainable Energy);\n– Stephanie Hawley\, an Equity and Inclusion consultant and the Associate Vice President of the Office of Equity and Inclusion at Austin Community College; and\n– Karen Magid\, Director of Sustainability and STEM at Huston-Tillotson University. \nPlease join us for this important and engaging conversation.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-equity-and-inclusion-in-the-solar-industry/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20181023T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20181023T200000
DTSTAMP:20181018T184141Z
CREATED:20181018T184141Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181018T184141Z
UID:38000-1540315800-1540324800@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Michael Osborne On Electric Transport
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nThe recent dire report on climate change from the IPCC\, which affirmed we only have until 2030 to solve the climate crisis\, is a powerful reminder of how urgently we need to transform our society to no longer use fossil fuels. Improving transportation and reducing emissions from this sector have remained largely intractable in Austin—something of great concern since transportation produces a third of our city’s emissions. \nThe City of Austin has expanded its fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) in recent years\, and Austin Energy recently received a grant to install more EV charging stations around the city. However\, we still have a long way to go to transition our transportation sector away from fossil fuels. \nWe are excited to welcome Michael Osborne\, former special assistant to the General Manager at Austin Energy and co-founder of Texas Renewable Energy Industries Alliance (TREIA)\, to discuss how transportation transformation is the next building block in the fight for our climate and a zero-carbon world. Michael will also introduce the Texas Electric Transportation Resources Alliance (TxETRA)\, which he co-founded\, and talk about what the organization has accomplished so far. \nWe hope you will join us for this conversation with a standout clean energy industry thought-leader about what the trail-blazers in electric vehicle policy are doing.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-michael-osborne-on-electric-transport/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20181016T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20181016T210000
DTSTAMP:20181011T023735Z
CREATED:20181011T023735Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181011T023735Z
UID:37912-1539714600-1539723600@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Districts 1 and 3 Climate and Energy Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin\, 350 Austin\, Shades of Green Environmental Talk Radio Show\, and Earth Day ATX –\nClimate change is happening now and local governments must play a significant role in reducing emissions and helping people cope with the impacts. Austin has existing climate commitments and has made progress in expanding its use of renewable energy\, but many challenges remain. Solar Austin\, 350 Austin\, Earth Day Austin\, and Shades of Green are hosting a forum for mayoral candidates to speak to Austinites about their climate change and energy priorities. \nPlease join us to hear from Natasha Harper-Madison\, Mariana Salazar\, Lewis Conway Jr.\, Reedy Spigner III\, and Mitrah Avini from district 1 and Council Member Pio Rentería\, Justin Jacobson\, Susana Almanza\, and Amit Motwani from district 3. We will have prepared questions and will accept questions from the audience. \nCandidates are required to respond to a written questionnaire in order to participate and those responses will be posted here when we get them. \nSnacks and drinks will be provided. \nThe event is FREE\, but we do appreciate your RSVP. \nThe event will be held in the Dickey-Lawless Auditorium on the campus of Huston-Tillotson University. \nPlease park in the Huston-Tillotson lot on Chalmers Ave (#25 on the map)\, directly across from the west entrance to campus. The auditorium is in building #1 on the map\, just a short walk across campus from the west entrance. The parking is free and open\, no permit required. Visitor parking on campus is very limited and must be arranged ahead of time as needed. Map: http://htu.edu/about
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/districts-1-and-3-climate-and-energy-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Huston-Tillotson University\, 900 Chicon Street\, Austin\, TX\, 78702\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/media.theaustincommon.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/16160555/District-1-and-3-Candidate-Forum.jpg
GEO:30.264681;-97.722331
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Huston-Tillotson University 900 Chicon Street Austin TX 78702 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=900 Chicon Street:geo:-97.722331,30.264681
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20181009T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20181009T210000
DTSTAMP:20181004T201224Z
CREATED:20181004T201224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20181004T201224Z
UID:37855-1539109800-1539118800@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Districts 8 and 9 Climate and Energy Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:From 350 Austin\, Earth Day Austin\, Shades of Green Radio Show\, and Solar Austin –\nClimate change is happening now and local governments must play a significant role in reducing emissions and helping people cope with the impacts. Austin has existing climate commitments and has made progress in expanding its use of renewable energy\, but many challenges remain. Solar Austin\, 350 Austin\, Earth Day Austin\, Shades of Green\, and the Wildflower Unitarian Universalist Church are hosting a forum for district 8 and 9 candidates to speak to Austinites about their climate change and energy priorities. \nPlease join us to hear from Bobby Levinski\, Rich DePalma\, and Frank Ward from district 8 and Mayor Pro Tem Kathie Tovo and Danielle Skidmore from district 9. We will have prepared questions and will accept questions from the audience. \nCandidates are required to respond to a written questionnaire in order to participate and those responses will be posted here when we get them.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/districts-8-and-9-climate-and-energy-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:Wildflower Church\, 1314 E Oltorf St\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/media.theaustincommon.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/16160632/District-8-and-9-climate-forum.jpg
GEO:30.2347375;-97.7427736
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Wildflower Church 1314 E Oltorf St Austin TX 78704 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1314 E Oltorf St:geo:-97.7427736,30.2347375
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20181002T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20181002T210000
DTSTAMP:20180927T200537Z
CREATED:20180927T200537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180927T200537Z
UID:37839-1538505000-1538514000@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Mayoral Climate and Energy Candidate Forum
DESCRIPTION:From 350 Austin\, Solar Austin\, Shades of Green radio show\, and Earth Day Austin –\nClimate change is happening now and local governments must play a significant role in reducing emissions and helping people cope with the impacts. Austin has existing climate commitments and has made progress in expanding its use of renewable energy\, but many challenges remain. Solar Austin\, 350 Austin\, Earth Day Austin\, Shades of Green\, and the Green Sanctuary Ministry of the First Unitarian Universalist Church are hosting a forum for mayoral candidates to speak to Austinites about their climate change and energy priorities. \nPlease join us to hear from Mayor Steve Adler\, Laura Morrison\, Travis Duncan\, and Alex Strenger. We will have prepared questions and will accept questions from the audience. \nCandidates are required to respond to a written questionnaire in order to participate and those responses will be posted here when we get them.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/mayoral-climate-and-energy-candidate-forum/
LOCATION:First Unitarian Universalist Church of Austin\, 4700 Grover Avenue\, Austin\, TX\, 78759\, United States
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180925T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180925T200000
DTSTAMP:20180920T223209Z
CREATED:20180920T223209Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180920T223209Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Valuing Solar And Distributed Energy
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\n\nThe explosive growth of renewable energy throughout the US\, including here in Austin\, continues thanks to technological and policy innovations such as the value of solar tariff incentive used here in Austin. Nevertheless\, funding and implementing wide-scale storage of renewable energy remains a challenge\, particularly for distributed energy resources (DER)\, such as rooftop solar. \nWe are excited to announce that Karl Rábago\, Executive Director of the Pace Energy and Climate Center (PECC)\, will discuss these and related renewable energy innovations as our September Happy Hour speaker. He will be joining us via Skype\, but don’t worry – the rest of your Solar Austin friends will be there in person. Mr. Rábago will delve into the development of value of solar tariffs in different markets as well as its potential role in the adoption of DER storage. As the former Vice President of Distributed Energy Services at Austin Energy who led the way in creating the first value of solar tariff\, Mr. Rábago will be a particularly insightful speaker on this topic. \nMr. Rábago is the Executive Director of the PECC\, at the Pace Law School in White Plains\, New York. The PECC mission is to protect the earth’s environment through solutions that transform the ways that society supplies and consumes energy. Mr. Rábago has some 25 years experience in energy and climate policy markets. He serves as Chair of the Board of the Center for Resource Solutions\, a San Francisco-based non-governmental organization that works to advance voluntary clean energy markets. He also sits on the Board of the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC). Mr. Rábago also is co-director and principal investigator for the Northeast Solar Energy Market Coalition\, a US DOE SunShot Initiative Solar Market Pathways project. \nWe hope you will join us for this discussion on cutting edge innovations in solar and energy storage policy with a true industry thought-leader.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-valuing-solar-and-distributed-energy/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180828T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180828T200000
DTSTAMP:20180822T201136Z
CREATED:20180822T201136Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180822T201136Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Solar Manufacturing In Texas
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nThis month\, Sam Martens\, Director of Commercial Operations at Mission Solar will share the story of how the company ended up in San Antonio and will discuss related industry dynamics. \nAs one of only a few solar manufacturers in Central Texas\, Mission Solar began with providing modules to San Antonio’s municipal electric utility\, CPS Energy. Mr. Martens will walk us through Mission’s expansion into commercial and residential markets\, future growth possibilities\, and how the solar manufacturing industry continues to evolve\, including industry challenges and strengths. \nSam Martens has been with Mission Solar since 2013. He serves as Mission Solar Energy’s Commercial Operations Director. He previously worked as an equity analyst at Macquarie Group\, the Royal Bank of Scotland and most recently CIMB Band\, Malaysia\, responsible for the Asian semiconductor and solar sectors. Earlier in his career\, he worked in information technology (IT) policy research at a Korean government think tank. He has his bachelor’s in arts degree in international studies\, focusing on economics and international studies\, from Korea University. He is fluent in English and Korean. \nWe hope you will join us on the fourth Tuesday of August for this interesting discussion on solar manufacturing in Central Texas.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-solar-manufacturing-in-texas/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Street \, Austin\, Texas \, Select a Country:
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180724T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180724T200000
DTSTAMP:20180711T193055Z
CREATED:20180711T192826Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180711T193055Z
UID:37189-1532453400-1532462400@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Solar Financing
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nWe are excited to announce our July Happy Hour speaker: Paul Watson\, Director of Dividend Finance. Mr. Watson will guide us through the ins and outs of solar financing and answer your questions. \nAlthough solar panel costs have come down dramatically\, the upfront costs of the technology sometimes necessitate financing for homeowners and businesses. Mr. Watson will walk us through the market outlook for solar loans and lending. \nIt is important to understand the context of financing from the role the Fed\, capital markets\, solar loans\, and green bonds play\, to where financial technology (fintech) platforms come in for solar growth. The differences between various lenders and the practices they use can meet some person’s or company’s needs but not others’. Lastly\, Mr. Watson will tie all of this together and explain the implications for solar financing in Central Texas. \nMr. Watson was born with a passion for the environment and nature\, and since he was a kid\, he wanted to be a Game Warden. However\, life happened and he has spent most of the past 15 years in corporate finance\, business development and private equity with a primary focus on technology commercialization and growth management. In addition to his role at Dividend Finance\, he spent seven years working in M&A\, due diligence\, market research and operational strategy in countries including China\, India and Mexico. Mr. Watson is also a Partner at Climate Impact Capital\, a Director of Hermes Investment Group\, a Kiva Zip trustee\, and a SURE Program advisory board member. He holds a BBA in Finance\, minor in Spanish\, speaks Mandarin Chinese\, and is a native Texan. \nWe hope you will join us for this interesting opportunity to gain more insight into how to actually pay for solar panels to power your home or business! \n\n\nState Parking Garages can be found next to\, behind and across from Scholz Garten. San Jacinto Blvd.\, 15th\, 16th\, 17th\, 18th\, and Trinity have parking garage entrances. \n\n\nAlthough our happy hours are free and open to all\, we hope you’ll consider donating to Solar Austin. Help us keep solar energy growing in the Austin area. You can purchase a ticket to the happy hour or go to our website\, solaraustin.org\, to donate and avoid fees. For regular updates on our Happy Hours and more information about Solar Austin\, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook\, and sign up for our email list via solaraustin.org.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-solar-financing/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180621T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180621T200000
DTSTAMP:20180614T044237Z
CREATED:20180614T044237Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180614T044237Z
UID:37012-1529602200-1529611200@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:Solar Austin's Summer Solstice Celebration
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nWe’re excited to invite you to Solar Austin’s first annual Summer Solstice Celebration! Please join us to celebrate our precious solar resources and community advocacy for renewable energy on the longest day of the year. \nWe’re passionate about solar policy and technology\, but we also like to have fun. Join us at the Zilker Park picnic tables near the disc golf course to celebrate and unwind! We will have delicious homemade BBQ (including vegan options)\, watermelon\, a keg of donated beer from the Texas Beer Company\, non-alcoholic drinks\, an open mic\, and solar car racing for the kids (and fun-loving adults). \nCome have fun\, eat\, and drink\, while getting to know other members of our community of advocates right here in Austin. \nWe look forward to celebrating the solstice—and community—with you on June 21st! You can RSVP here. \nP.S. We won’t have our regular happy hour event in June.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austins-summer-solstice-celebration/
LOCATION:Zilker Park\, 2100 Barton Springs Rd\, Austin\, TX\, 78704\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180327T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180327T200000
DTSTAMP:20180322T163752Z
CREATED:20180322T163752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180322T163752Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Austin Local Solar Update
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nThis month we have a special solar-powered sponsor: Texas Beer Company! The first 33 ticketed happy hour attendees will get a free Texas Beer Company Pecos Amber beer. \nWhat is Austin Energy doing locally when it comes to solar? Our city-owned utility has existing goals to reach 110 MW of local solar by 2020 and 200 MW by 2025. Austin Energy has several programs to meet these goals. Recently\, Austin Energy made exciting announcements\, including the completion of the new 2.5 MW La Loma community solar project\, a new low-income solar program powered by La Loma\, and the pilot for solar available to multifamily dwellings and affordable housing\, called Shared Solar. Significant changes are also being made to the residential solar incentive program. \nWith the completion of La Loma\, Austin Energy has expanded its community solar program to 400 more residential customers. Although there is only room left on the waitlist at the regular rate\, the half set aside for the Customer Assistance Program (CAP) participants (low-income customers) is still open. CAP customers can now reduce their bill by signing up for the community solar program. (Sign up here:https://austinenergy.com/ae/green-power/solar-solutions/for-your-home/community-solar) Shared Solar will allow residents in a multifamily dwelling to receive a prorated portion of the value of solar credit from a single installation. \nSolar Austin is excited to announce Danielle Murray\, Austin Energy’s Solar Program Manager\, as our March Happy Hour speaker! She will provide an update on all things local solar at Austin Energy: on the La Loma Community Solar project\, the low-income solar program\, Shared Solar\, the upcoming changes to the residential solar incentive program\, and progress toward Austin’s local solar and other renewable energy goals. \nDanielle Murray is Austin Energy’s Manager of Solar Energy Services\, overseeing the utility’s renewable energy offerings and local solar programs. These include the wind-based GreenChoice program\, Community Solar program\, residential and commercial solar incentive programs\, solar inspections\, and the Value of Solar rates. Previously\, Danielle was the Renewable Program Manager for the City and County of San Francisco\, where she led efforts to develop the local solar market\, reduce soft costs\, and implement innovative financing mechanisms; coordinated wind\, wave\, and district energy research and development; and served as chair of the Mayor’s Renewable Energy Task Force. Prior to that\, she worked for the City of Toronto’s Energy Office\, where she designed and implemented the Toronto Neighborhoods Initiative which provided grants and low-interest loans to homeowners to install solar water heating systems and other energy efficiency improvements. \nWe hope you will join us Tuesday\, March 27th for this update on Austin Energy’s solar programs. There’s lots of change happening right now\, and this will be a great chance to ask your questions.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-austin-local-solar-update/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20180227T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20180227T200000
DTSTAMP:20180220T055009Z
CREATED:20180220T055009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20180220T055009Z
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SUMMARY:Solar Austin Happy Hour: Community Solar at PEC
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nThe Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) is going big with community solar. By the end of 2018\, the co-op expects to have 15 MW online at five sites throughout its service territory. These local solar installations will be used to provide power to participating co-op members (customers) at a set rate. This is great news for customers who don’t have access to on-site solar—whether it’s because they can’t afford it\, don’t own their own homes\, or don’t have roof or are on land that isn’t suited for solar. And since participating co-op members will reduce their electric bills compared to the regular PEC rates\, it’s no wonder that over 1\,000 members signed up in the first day that the program opened for subscriptions in December. If you’re a PEC member\, you can sign up here <https://www.pec.coop/your-service/solar-options/cooperative-solar-rate/>. \nPEC is investing in low cost solar to reduce more expensive power purchases from the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA)\, which relies heavily on the coal-fired Fayette power plant. Once again\, solar is benefiting the environment and reducing costs. \nSolar Austin is excited to announce that Jim Spaulding\, Director of Project Development Energy Services at PEC\, will discuss the co-op’s new community solar installations at our February happy hour. \nAt PEC\, Jim Spaulding is responsible for developing and implementing new value-driven energy products and services that will advance and improve the cooperative’s performance in meeting its energy demands and developing strategic goals. He is an experienced professional in the utility\, energy solutions\, and water markets\, as well as wastewater facility enhancement\, with a proven track record in team building\, specialized sales recruiting\, and driving growth. \nWe hope you will join us Tuesday\, February 27th for this exciting discussion about PEC’s community solar initiative!
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/solar-austin-happy-hour-community-solar-pec/
LOCATION:Scholz Garten\, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd.\, Austin\, TX\, United States
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20171215T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20171215T220000
DTSTAMP:20171215T002816Z
CREATED:20171215T002816Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20171215T002816Z
UID:35073-1513364400-1513375200@theaustincommon.com
SUMMARY:3rd Annual Solar Austin Holiday Party
DESCRIPTION:From Solar Austin –\nRSVP for Solar Austin’s Third Annual Holiday Party! \nThis year\, our Annual Solar Achievement Award goes to H-E-B Grocery Company\, LP. We chose to honor H-E-B for both the company’s stand out Hurricane Harvey relief work and its extensive support for and adoption of solar energy. \nWe hope you will join us for a fun night supporting clean energy and good local jobs while honoring H-E-B’s support for solar power and victims of Hurricane Harvey! \nAbout H-E-B \nH-E-B immediately donated $100\,000 for Harvey relief\, subsequently providing other monetary and volunteer support\, the company’s mobile kitchens\, and more that 1\,000 truckloads of water in the first 72 hours of the crisis to support victims of Hurricane Harvey—support estimated to be worth a total of $3 million. On top of H-E-B’s generous disaster relief support\, the company has spent over $10 million implementing solar power systems in 20 of its Austin-area stores and 2 distribution centers\, which will be able to produce 4.9 millions kWh of energy per year and brings the retailer’s overall solar energy production to 12.1 million kilowatt-hours per year. Additionally\, H-E-B donated $1 million to the San Antonio River Foundation to help fund Confluence Park\, a project which will serve as a learning destination to teach visitors about sustainability and conservation practices like solar power and rainwater harvesting. \nPlease join us to celebrate! You can purchase your tickets here.
URL:https://theaustincommon.com/event/3rd-annual-solar-austin-holiday-party/
LOCATION:Friends and Allies Brewing Company\, 979 Springdale Road #124\, Austin\, TX\, 78702\, United States
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END:VCALENDAR