Breaking the Ice: The Future of Offshore Wind in Northeast Ohio

According to a report recently released by the American Wind Energy Association, wind is now the largest renewable energy source in the United States. The Department of Energy estimates that 20 percent of energy consumed in the U.S. could come from wind by 2030.

Situated on Lake Erie with a constant wind stream, Northeast Ohio is poised to potentially become a hub for the offshore wind industry. Initiated more than a decade ago, Icebreaker - the first freshwater wind project in the United States - is scheduled to begin construction in 2018. Consisting of six wind turbines located seven miles from the Lake Erie shoreline, the goal for Icebreaker is to make enough electricity to provide energy to 6,000 homes by 2019.

Icebreaker could also be a game-changer for economic development, generating new jobs and positively contributing to the region's manufacturing and construction strengths. How do we take to advantage of these opportunities to create a flourishing wind industry on the Great Lakes? And what can we do now to help meet this longer term vision?

Join us for a conversation as we explore the value of water to Northeast Ohio's future in the offshore wind industry.

Also, join us pre-forum to hear this year's Stop the Hate Essay Contest winners read their essays in front of our City Club audience.