FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

BRAINERD, MN; April 21, 2008 – WERC NEWS

Winkelman’s Environmentally Responsible Construction (WERC) announced that it is offering grant-writing services for USDA grant applications on behalf of prospective wind turbine owners before the current year's second round deadline of June 15, 2008. WERC has been successful in achieving 18 out of 19 USDA grant awards for applications submitted over the past three years, making them one of the most successful grant writers for the small wind turbine industry in the nation.

David Winkelman, founder and CEO of WERC, noted, “The entire Midwest has a great wind resource available and the USDA can help fund wind turbines for thousands of farmers and rural small businesses. Minnesota is also a national leader in the planned implementation of renewable energy in order to meet the state’s recently enacted Renewable Energy mandate of 25% renewable energy utilization by the year 2025. Landowners who can’t afford the million-dollar price tag for a big wind turbine can participate in the benefits of wind turbine ownership under provisions of net metering statues in most states. There are more incentives in place now than ever before from the USDA and we think this is a great way to bring our tax dollars home.”

WERC is the state’s leading installer of small wind turbines, specializing in turbines for farms, businesses, environmental learning centers and private investors. Solar PV, geothermal, biomass and green building consulting are also part of the portfolio of WERC projects. The Eco-Domes, an award-winning environmental building complex near Brainerd, MN is the headquarters for WERC and is open to the public. WERC is a direct result of the four-decade long evolution of Winkelman Companies, located in central Minnesota and specializing in construction and conservation work. 

Contact:  218-764-2321