Billionaire-turned-alternative-energy pitchman T. Boone Pickens will speak at the NAHB’s May 8-10 green-building conference.

Pickens will be the May 8 dinner speaker at the National Association of Home Builders’ annual event, which will be held in Dallas.

Pickens, 80, is a billionaire who made much of his money in oil before deciding the United States must switch to other, more sustainable fuels. He has starred in a number of self-financed television commercials urging the adoption of his “Pickens Plan,” which would shift the U.S. economy from oil to natural gas and eventually, wind and solar power.

He is expected to speak to NAHB members about the role of the housing industry in protecting the environment.

“We are delighted that one of our host state’s most famous residents will share his expertise with our conference attendees," said Joanne Theunissen, a Mount Pleasant, Mich., builder and remodeler who serves as chairwoman of the 2009 NAHB National Green Building Conference.

“I believe that this year's conference is simply a can't-miss event for our industry - especially for those of us looking for new tools that will allow us to remain profitable in the current economic climate - and be ready to be green as the demand for housing returns,” Theunissen added.

The full schedule and registration details are availablehere.