Gathered at the Darlings’ home were Vicky Mishcon, Susan and Larry Chase, Steve and Gisela Darling, Andy Prokosch, Jeff Dickinson, and Janet Moore.

Our first order of business was to discuss material for the AEG table on Town Meeting day. We decided on a tankless hot water heater, small size, various model cars and house, whatever exhibit Ken Wells may be able to bring, and a questionnaire pertaining to energy needs, including the possibility of “fleet purchasing” of autos.

That led into an enthusiastic discussion of the possibility of a spring “auto day,” whereby we could entice dealers like Grappone and Tilton Auto-Serv to come display their energy-efficient cars for Andover residents. The parking lot just off Routes 4 and 11 by the Transfer Station seemed like a reasonable venue. Vicky and Larry agreed to approach dealers.

The school budget passed with flying colors, and included was up to $50,000 for assessing alternative energy opportunities. At a School Board work session on March 13, the Board will entertain proposal ideas from a few companies.

The streetlight decisions have been moved to a petitioned warrant article to be presented at Town Meeting.

In early May, we will sponsor a workshop on residential wind power.

Larry relayed a request from The Andover Beacon for contact information regarding potential advertising by local energy-related concerns. Gisela will call ReVision, Sophie will talk to Sun Ray and Paradigm, Vicky will speak with Bill Wentzel and Capital Well, and Larry will approach Alan McIntyre and Proctor.

We raised the possibility of a field trip on March 14 to Lyme to investigate the TARM Biomass facility. Lunch, of course, would follow.

The search for affordable solar-powered lighting at the Transfer Station goes on.

Jeff’s non-governmental organization has generously purchased a tankless hot water heater to be used in the bathroom in Town Hall. Possibilities for installation were discussed.

Andy reported that Arizona has agreed to let utility companies charge a fee to owners of grid-tied photovoltaic systems, and that other states are considering doing the same. While there is some justification for this, the existence of these fees will drive up the cost of owning small systems and may discourage individuals from installing them.

Next meeting: Thursday, April 3.