Western Progress to host renewable energy workshop in Phoenix on May 17-18. "Power Play" will highlight the policies needed to fully exploit the West's solar and wind resources, and will underscore the economic benefits of the new energy economy. See more.

Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano and former U.S. Sen. Tom Daschle will kick off Western Progress' first issues conference on the evening of May 17. The full-day workshop on May 18 will bring together policymakers, energy and finance experts to chart a course toward a robust renewable energy economy in the Rocky Mountain West.

Among the speakers will be Joanna Prukop, New Mexico's secretary of Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources, and George Longo, who heads up UBS Investment Bank's alternative and renewable energy group.

"Power Play" will build on the West's growing success in becoming a national leader in the production of solar and wind power. Already this year, New Mexico and Colorado have enacted legislation expanding the two states' existing renewable portfolio standards that require utilities to produce a set percentage of electrical power from renewable sources.

Participants invited to "Power Play" will explore the policy changes needed to build on that momentum throughout the eight Rocky Mountain states. New research will be presented outlining the economic and employment benefits of a new energy economy.

Power Play" marks the beginning of what will be Western Progress' long-term involvement in renewable energy policy in the region