Community members will have the opportunity to engage with a panel of experts on how electricity is generated in Nebraska, and the opportunities that the state’s public power status offers citizens to shape their energy future during a meeting in Beatrice on March 5.

Hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs, New Power Nebraska and Conservation Nebraska, the meeting will begin at 6 p.m., at the Beatrice Public Library, 100 N 16th St. 

“The energy landscape has changed considerably, with renewables frequently being one of the lowest-cost options for electricity,” said Lu Nelsen, policy associate with the Center for Rural Affairs. “Because we live in the only 100 percent public power state, Nebraskans can have a voice in how the electricity that powers our homes and businesses is generated.”

Panelists will include David Bracht, attorney at Kutak Rock and former director of the Nebraska Energy Office, Josh Eickmeier, mayor of Seward, and Cliff Mesner, owner of Mesner Development.

“Nebraska has significant potential to generate clean energy and bring new economic development to rural communities in the state,” Nelsen said. “Declining costs have also allowed many communities to invest in local renewable generation to meet their needs.”

For more information on this event, contact Nelsen, at 402.687.2100 ext. 1022 or [email protected]