<b>By CINDY LADAGE<br>
Illinois Correspondent</b> </p><p>

CHICAGO, Ill. — On Jan. 18, Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich announced that more than $100,000 have been appropriated for wind energy projects.<br>
“Small wind energy systems are not only a good source for clean, renewable energy, but they also help scale down our nation’s dependency on imported energy and reduce greenhouse gases,” Blagojevich said. “Strategic investments in small wind systems will help Illinois meet the energy needs of our residents and our economy. Investments in clean energy sources bring investments in clean energy jobs. In Illinois, we are expanding our economy by becoming a leader in clean energy technology.”<br>
To ensure the viability of wind turbines, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) plans to evaluate the success of the turbines.<br>
“Gov. Blagojevich understands that strategically investing in renewable energy is both an environmentally and economically sound decision,” DCEO Director Jack Lavin said. “These grants are helping Illinois citizens reduce their energy costs while promoting clean, renewable energy.”<br>
State Rep. Robert Flider (D-Mt. Zion) added, “It is important that the State of Illinois is helping those who are making a difference for our environment.”<br>
DCEO defined small wind energy systems as wind turbines with a nameplate capacity of 100 kilowatts (kW) or less. While these are not mega-powerful, the small wind turbines can be used for homes, farms and small businesses to lower electric bills and avoid the fluctuating prices of traditional energy sources.<br>
DCEO offered examples of some of the grantees projects. Victor Zaderej of Oregon, Ill., was awarded a grant of $9,673. He built a Zero Energy Home as a model for future. Zaderaj’s Zero Energy Home is designed to produce as much energy as the home occupants consume.<br>
Zaderej’s home optimizes energy use by utilizing a climate-specific design with a passive heating and cooling system. The high elevation and available wind resource on Zaderej’s turbine site maximizes the energy output of the system. In addition, by incorporating a small wind energy system into his design, Zaderej continues to promote sustainability through energy efficient design and the use of renewable energy.<br>
“As technology advances, we are finding better ways to use the resources around us. I am pleased the Governor has made investments in wind energy, along with solar technology and biofuels a state priority,” said state Sen. Michael W. Frerichs (D-Champaign).<br>
Another example offered was of Dale E. Balder who has a grant for $24,000. He will use his small wind turbine to bring energy to his home and to promote his small business, Heavenly Winds, LLC. The business is a renewable energy dealership specializing in solar photovoltaic installations and small wind systems. DCEO reports that Balder plans to use his installation as a positive example to potential consumers of the benefits of wind energy.<br>
The location of this small wind turbine in close proximity to a utility-scale wind farm will also provide a comparative example of the many ways renewable energy can be utilized. Other grantees include: Robert D. Cooley of Dalton City who received $20,793.00; Jon Haeme, Kempton $13,293.00; Patrick Harrington, Danville $24,954.00; Patrick T. Kenny, South Beloit $7,783.00 and Joel R. Lee, Peotone $6,284.00.<br>
 “As a state every investment we make in wind, solar, and bio fuels bring us a step closer to energy independence,” said State Rep. Lisa M. Dugan (D-Kankakee).<br>
“I appreciate that the Governor recognizes the importance of supporting advances in energy across the state. In rural areas we can explore how best to use the abundant wind energy,” said State Sen. Debbie Halvorson (D-Chicago Heights).