The University of Nebraska Public Policy Center and University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism and Mass Communications present the screening of "Renewable Energy and Nebraska's Future" at 6:30 p.m. April 20 at the Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center, 313 N. 13th St. "Renewable Energy and Nebraska's Future" is a 1-hour documentary that explores the opportunities and challenges of expanding renewable energy resources in Nebraska. It was produced by students at the College of Journalism and Mass Communications.

The documentary covers the current status and future potential for wind, solar, biofuels, and nuclear energy, and features interviews with Gov. Dave Heineman, Senator Ben Nelson, former Sen. Chuck Hagel, U.S. Reps. Jeff Fortenberry, Adrian Smith and Lee Terry, and others. The program identifies the critical issues facing the state, and investigates renewable energy policies that Nebraska should pursue to expand renewable energy options. The documentary was supported by the Nebraska Center for Energy Sciences Research with funding support from Nebraska Public Power District.

Prior to the screening of "Renewable Energy and Nebraska's Future," students will discuss the making of the documentary. The screening will be followed by a discussion and question and answer session with Fortenberry about renewable energy in Nebraska and the nation.

The event is part of the Thomas C. Sorensen Policy Seminar Series and national 2009 Focus The Nation activities on energy and climate change. The pre-screening discussion begins at 6:30 p.m. The documentary will premiere at 7, and be followed by the discussion with Fortenberry. It is free and open to the public. For more information, visit http://ppc.nebraska.edu.

Contacts:

Tarik Abdel-Monem, Public Policy Center, phone: (402) 472-3147

Jerry Renaud, College of Journalism and Mass Communications, phone: (402) 472-3056

Amy Struthers, College of Journalism and Mass Communications, phone: (402) 472-3528