Environmental forum spotlights energy Environmental forum spotlights energy (October 05, 2005)

"Energy 101: Can California avoid more blackouts?" will be the topic of the next Environmental Forum on Wednesday, October 5, from 7 to 9 p.m., at Acterra, 3921 E. Bayshore Road in Palo Alto.

Jane Turnbull, energy consultant to the California League of Women Voters, will outline how the state's electricity system works and discuss the challenges -- including how to avoid whatever caused the recent blackout in Los Angeles.

Her topics will include: problems with the state's power transmission grid; the need, if any, for new power plants; prospects for nuclear power; the rising price of natural gas; and what renewable energy sources will be cost-effective.

The program will also include pros and cons of Proposition 80, the electricity re-regulation initiative on the November ballot.

Tickets are $5 for Acterra members, $10 for non-members, and free for anyone who joins or renews that evening. For information, call Yuliya Schmidt at 962-9876, ext. 306, or go to acterra.org.

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