From Chirps To Tweets

Invented by Twitter, the rapidly growing social media website, and heralded by cryptic messages such as “RT @secondwind: #GWind09 (6/15) Tweet-up at The Burren, 1 p.m. in support of Global Wind Energy Day! http://tinyurl.com/ltqqxs”, a Tweet-Up is an informal meeting, at a public place, announced only on a Twitter page intended for people who share similar interests. Twitter has captured media attention through such Twitter sites as Zappo’s, the online shoe seller, and Boloco, fast-rising New England-based burrito restaurant.

Organized by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), Global Wind Energy Day promotes awareness of wind energy worldwide, inviting the public to celebrate wind power as a near-term solution to global climate change and a driver for economic growth in local communities.

“Renewables in general, and wind energy in particular, play an important part in the nation’s and the Commonwealth’s economic recovery,” says Second Wind’s Chief Operating Officer Larry Letteney, noting that Second Wind has grown its Massachusetts  employee base 15%  in 2009 and is currently filling several additional key roles. “We are proud of our location in Davis Square and are looking forward to connecting with others in Somerville who care about wind energy.”

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) began using the fast-growing Twitter website in May and joined in the call to support Global Wind Energy Day by announcing a National Wind Energy Day and suggesting “TweetUps” as a vehicle to celebrate the day. Second Wind is the first Boston-area firm to host one of the TweetUps.

“In the United States, Global Wind Energy Day comes at a time when the nation is surging forward in wind and renewable energy development,” said AWEA CEO Denise Bode,“but we risk losing this momentum and tens of thousands of jobs if Congress does not adopt a strong national renewable energy standard, or RES.”

“It’s great to see firms from across the wind energy industry using social media to support the wind power agenda,” said AWEA Director of Communications Tom Gray. “AWEA thanks Second Wind for its creative and enthusiastic support in making Global Wind Energy Day a success.”

Participants at the TweetUp were enthusiastic as well. Tweeted Somerville resident Kevin Andrew, who attended the event: “Cheers! RT @secondwind.”