HealthLink plans energy roundtable in Peabody

PEABODY-The North Shore environmental and public health advocacy group HealthLink will hold a public forum on renewable energy on Oct. 25 at the Torigian Life Center.The Essex County Renewable Energy Roundtable will feature local panelists highlighting wind power, solar power, geothermal energy and green building projects throughout the county. Participants can learn how municipalities are incorporating their vision for modern projects that will save their respective communities money and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, according to HealthLink spokesman Martha Dansdill.The forum provides an opportunity to hear about successful energy projects in Essex County, ask questions and network with those who are leading the movement regionally.Speakers will include Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll; Robert Tina who heads up the wind-power initiative at the Lynn Water and Sewer Commission’s regional wastewater treatment facility in Lynn; Martin Orio of Water Energy Distributors, a company using geothermal energy processes; Rick Johnson from Varian Semiconductor, which is involved in wind energy technology; and Bill Gette, representing the solar-power initiative at Joppa Flats at Plum Island.Members of various energy-related organizations and task forces on the North Shore will also be available for discussion and information sharing. Municipal leaders are urged to attend.Pre-registration is suggested. For more information about the roundtable forum, contact Swampscott-based HealthLink at 781-598-1115 or email [email protected] learn more about Essex County renewable energy projects, go to HealthLink’s e-bulletin board.HealthLink is currently launching a billboard campaign in Topsfield and Beverly to promote alternative energy use. The organization is also attempting to raise awareness by hanging posters on Blue Line rapid-rail trains.