Oral History Interview, Lauris Wagner (2512)

Abstract

During UW–Madison’s Grandparents University, 11-year-old Renewable Energy Studies major Cooper Butteris interviewed his grandmother Lauris Wagner, a Wisconsin resident. Lauris discussed how her energy use has changed from her childhood reliance on wood stoves and limited electricity. She observed significant increases in energy consumption due to increased car and device usage and a growing population. Wagner noted the beginnings of the shift to renewable energy in the 1970s and 1980s, including her family's installation of solar collectors and purchase of a fuel-efficient car. She expressed regret over the decline in solar programs and emphasized the need for renewable energy investment. Wagner also urged future generations to conserve energy and pursue scientific careers to address environmental issues. This interview was collected in collaboration with the Wisconsin Energy Institute (WEI) and is housed within the UW-Madison Archives Oral History Program as part of the WEI Grandparents University Oral History Project.