EDITORIAL: Green energy for a greener economy

Northwest Indiana leaders long have said the region needs to build a renewable energy industry here. Finally, that thought is turning into substance.

Fronius USA's announcement that it will move its U.S. headquarters to Portage represents an initial foray into the renewable energy industry. The 500 jobs associated with the Austrian-based solar power component manufacturer will be a good boost to the region's economy. It was enough to bring out Gov. Mitch Daniels for last week's jobs announcement.

Daniels is excited about not just the number of jobs, but also the type of industry Fronius represents. "This is the kind of company we have tried to rebuild the Indiana economy to attract. The whole state will be proud of what happens here," the governor said.

The company recited familiar assets for Northwest Indiana as reasons for locating here: "We searched for the right location, the right state, and chose Indiana," said Wolfgang Niedrist, managing director of sales for Fronius USA. Niedrist cited Indiana's strong education system, solid network of suppliers and, of course, its logistical services. Northwest Indiana is truly the crossroads of America.

The energy industry is at a crossroads. Heavy reliance on oil from the Middle East causes problems with foreign relations and national security. Older coal-burning technology causes environmental problems. Innovative answers to the nation's energy needs — cheap, clean, reliable sources — are necessary.

Northwest Indiana has one of the nation's largest oil refineries in BP's Whiting Refinery. That refinery is completing a $3.8 billion expansion to handle more heavy crude oil from Canada. It also has NuVant Systems, which is developing fuel cell technology at the Purdue Research Park in Merrillville. And now Fronius USA is being added to the region's energy sector mix.

Northwest Indiana is known for its steel industry and its casinos. It also should be known for innovation in the energy field as well — something in which BP, NuVant and Fronius, among others, are leaders.

Economic development efforts in Northwest Indiana should be strengthened by last week's Fronius USA announcement.

Bringing additional manufacturers of renewable energy technology to Northwest Indiana can create the pool of talent that not only supplies the existing employers but also fosters innovation that gives entrepreneurship a boost.

Bring other manufacturers to Northwest Indiana to build the wind turbine components and other tools necessary to turn Northwest Indiana into the green energy economy of the future.