$50M energy research push intensifies

Local and state leaders are rallying Congress to designate $50 million in promised funding to an energy research group dedicated to exploring alternative fuel sources.

As part of former Louisiana Gov. Mike Foster's Energy Initiative, the Clean Power and Energy Research Consortium was promised

"They know they are receiving the money. But now there is a sense of urgency to get it right now as New Orleans rebuilds begins," said Leigh Whitman, a CPERC spokeswoman.

The money is dedicated to energy research and building the Churchill Technology Park, a business and research park located 12 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

Five universities - Louisiana State University, The University of New Orleans, Tulane University, Nicholls State University and Southern University - are involved in developing the technology park, Whitman said.

Jefferson Parish Councilman John Young, executive director of the Jefferson Economic Development Committee, and state Rep. John Alario, D-Westwego, urged Congress to swiftly allocate the funds.

"Now more than ever the citizens of Louisiana and the nation need the critical research partnership that CPERC offers," said CPERC chairman Charles Cusimano. "We possess the greatest potential to contribute to regional and national clean power and energy research."