The conference is aimed at energy managers, sustainability coordinators, and faculty, students and staff.

Both towns recognized the environmental and economic benefits of harnessing solar energy but cited the need for a local law.

The changes have saved enough energy to power five residential homes for about a year.

The project has generated considerable controversy since review began this past winter.

The West Dryden Road Pipeline was proposed several years ago as a pipeline that would carry natural gas from Freeville to Lansing.

The project was designed, constructed and self-financed by Renovus Solar, an Ithaca, New York-owned and operated solar developer.

Local solar energy installer Renovus has announced furloughs that will affect about one-third of their workforce.