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What is Green Power?
Green Power is energy produced by renewable sources, like wind and
sun, that are replenished naturally. Renewable energy is a clean source
of energy that has a much lower environmental impact than conventional
energy technologies.
Why is Green Power important?
By choosing Green Power, you can support development of renewable
energy sources, which can reduce the burning of fossil fuels, such as
coal, oil, and natural gas. Greater reliance on renewable sources also
provides economic benefits and can improve our national energy security.
Where does Green Power come from?
Lower Valley Energy is purchasing renewable power from the Foote
Creek Wind Project, located near Laramie and from other regional
projects. Energy produced from these projects is certified as
Environmentally Preferred Power, a rating endorsed by national and
northwestern region environmental organizations.
How will this affect my electric
bill?
Green Power is paid for by an extra monthly premium, which shows up
on your bill in addition to regular monthly charges. As a residential
customer you can purchase blocks of 300 kilowatt hours (kWhs) for $3.50
extra per month. As a commercial customer you can choose between 1,500
kWhs/$17.50 per month blocks (Partner Level) or 3,000 kWhs/$35.00 per month
blocks (Champion Level).
Why does Green Power cost more?
Green Power, or renewable energy, is a relatively new concept.
Companies have just recently begun to create power from these sources of
energy. As a modern technology, these types of facilities are more
expensive to construct and operate. As technology increases and usage
increases, it is likely that overall costs will decrease.
How do I know I’m Getting Green
Power?
Power generators put power into the energy pool and power grid as
energy customers take it out. Wind-generated Green Power enters the
power pool that is already being fed by other power resources like
natural gas, oil and coal. By supporting Green Power you are investing
in the further development of a clean power resource.
How does Green Power benefit our
local communities?
Choosing renewable power reduces the impact on our water sources,
the air we breathe, wildlife, and the land around us. Also, the more
customers participating in Green Power will help ensure that our
communities will benefit from renewable energy sources long into the
future.
What effects could wind turbines have
on migratory birds?
The technology associated with modern wind turbines has improved
greatly, significantly reducing bird mortality at wind plants. Today's
wind facilities are specifically located in areas where there is not an
updraft. Tubular towers of modern wind turbines ensure that birds are
unable to perch on the towers. Smaller turbines that may still have
lattice towers have diagonal supports to discourage perching.
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