Kansas needs to form stronger public-private relationships to foster growth in the energy industry, according to a new report from Kansas Lt. Gov. Troy Findley. Findley on Friday released the 2010 Energy Subcabinet Report, which also calls for the formation of an interagency working group, designed to be a “one-stop-shop” for wind energy developers.

Here is a news release from the state about the energy report.

While Kansas has come a long way in building up its energy opportunities, more must be done to help the state become a leader in the new energy economy. That was the finding of the Governor’s Energy Policy Subcabinet in a report released by its chair, Lieutenant Gov. Troy Findley.

The 2010 Energy Subcabinet Report, presented to Gov. Mark Parkinson, examines how Kansas’ energy-related efforts are currently organized and suggests ways to advance the state’s vision for a sensible and comprehensive energy profile. “I have been so honored to lead Kansas’ energy policies during this exciting time for the industry. Kansas has made great strides in just the past few years — we’ve tripled our state’s wind power, passed comprehensive energy legislation and attracted new renewable energy manufacturers to Kansas,” said Findley. “But to truly unlock our energy potential, we need the next administration to make energy policy a priority and further the progress we’ve made.”

Some of the recommendations issued by the Energy Policy Subcabinet include:

■ Taking proactive steps to promote renewable energy development through increasing the state’s focus on technical and workforce training; regularly evaluating the workforce to meet the needs of energy developers; and continuing to collaborate with state agencies, community organizations and local governments to attract new green companies to Kansas.

■ Continuing collaboration among appropriate state agencies and stakeholders rather than creating a brand new, centralized state agency for energy.

■ Aligning and implementing initiatives that will support workforce and economic development by strengthening K-12 schools, community and technical colleges and universities to connect students with green job opportunities, as well as through early intelligence with research and studies regarding Kansas’ labor abilities.

■ Forming an interagency working group for wind energy to serve as a “one-stop-shop” for developers and other stakeholders, providing information and resources necessary to optimize and expedite wind and transmission planning.

Implementing energy efficiency building codes to support energy efficiency and conservation efforts, as required with the state’s acceptance of the federal government’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funding. This will help promote market transformation and foster economic growth through creation of new green collar jobs. Fully incorporating water planning as part of energy planning in the future. “The most consistent theme in the subcabinet’s report is that Kansas needs continued collaboration by public and private stakeholders and an administration that is focused on the task at hand,” continued Findley. “Implementing a comprehensive energy strategy will balance our state’s energy portfolio, contribute to our economy and ensure more reliable services to Kansas residents.

While significant work still needs to be done, Kansas is in a unique position, and we are fortunate to have the tools we need to advance this industry.” During his 2010 State of the State Address, Gov. Parkinson directed Lieutenant Gov. Findley to convene the Energy Policy Subcabinet to enhance synchronization between the public and private sector and to provide leadership on energy-related issues for Kansas. Members of the subcabinet identified the scope of the state-level energy dialogue and received regular updates on topics including both new and traditional forms of energy, transmission infrastructure, economic development and workforce-related programs and more.