BERC in the News
Burlington Free Press, Letter to the Editor, June 29, 2007
Making Progress on Woodchip Heating
I’m writing to congratulate the Montpelier-based Biomass Energy Resource Center (BERC) as it celebrates three milestones: its fifth anniversary, its new executive director, and its release of an in-depth wood fuel study for Vermont.
BERC had its beginnings here in Vermont and is exporting its knowledge to other parts of the country as well. Their founding executive director, Tim Maker, is taking a step back from the lead position but will continue to work at BERC helping institutions that want to utilize biomass fuels. Chris Recchia has taken over the reins as executive director.
Over the years BERC has worked in concert with other groups in Vermont to help establish biomass fuels, primarily woodchips, as a viable heating option. As director of the School Energy Management Program for the Vermont Superintendents Association, I know just how valuable this collaboration has been.
Vermont now has about 20 percent of its school children attending woodchip heated schools. The use of wood fuels helps the environment, creates a market for low-grade wood, reduces costs, and increases employment and tax revenues for Vermont.
BERC’s wood fuel study will help other entities in Vermont that are considering wood energy systems. A big thank you to BERC for taking the lead on development and utilization of biomass resources in Vermont and throughout the country.
Norm Etkind, Woodbury