Green conference meets in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Environmental entrepreneurs and enthusiasts gathered in Springfield on Wednesday to talk about sustainability and going green

At a time when many of us are wondering when the power is coming back on, green businesses are coming together to talk about powering the future.

At the Clean Energy Connections Conference and Opportunity Fair on Wednesday, green businesses from across the region gathered in Springfield to share their ideas for a green future.

Companies like NESEA, based in Greenfield, that have created a social network for green businesses

"We're trying to connect an older generation of folks that have the technology and have the experience in doing this sort of thing, connect them with an upcoming generation of emerging professionals," said Travis Niles from NESEA based in Springfield.

Much of the conference focused around clean energy.

Stiebel Eltron, based out of West Hatfield, focuses on thermal solar technology to heat buildings and water, making us less reliant on traditional power sources.

"If we have a bad infrastructure we haven't prepared for the future, it's going to get us eventually so we have to think about that so I think this last storm is a good reminder of that," said Frank Stiebel of Stiebel Eltron.

This conference isn't just about talking about green, but being green as well. In fact the visitors of the conference are encouraged to carpool, the food served is from local vendors and even the cups are 100% recyclable.

And if you think going green is out of reach for you, think again.

"Whether it be solar installation or geothermal they need to know what the costs are, but they need to understand that it's an investment for the future and it's an investment for their children’s future," said Marla Michel, the Conference Chairperson for the Clean Energy Connections Conference.

The conference was put together by UMass Amherst and runs every year.