What is Green Power?
Green Power is power generated by renewable resources such as solar, wind, geothermal, landfill gas, and hydroelectric.
What are the benefits of purchasing Green Power?
The benefits of investing in renewable energy are significant! Did you know that coal-fired generation is the single largest source of air pollution in the nation? Although OPALCO’s fuel mix is more than 85% hydroelectric, coal is still used to generate a portion of the electricity we consume in the Northwest. A purchase of just three blocks of Green Power for a year has following benefits and more:
• Protect our natural resources: keep 3,600 pounds of coal in the ground
• Keep the air clean: eliminate 7,200 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions a year.
• Hug trees: it is equivalent to planting 1.5 acres of trees!
By signing up for the OPALCO Green Power Program, you are helping to influence the type of future electric generation developed in the Northwest. While we can’t guarantee that actual “green” electrons will reach your home or business, the amount you purchase will be delivered to the Northwest power grid. You play a role in building the market for renewable energy within the state.
How does the program work?
Green Power is affordable! Subscribers can purchase OPALCO Green Power for $4.00 per 100 kilowatt-hour (kWh) blocks, or can select the All Green option for four cents per kWh premium. Both pricing options would be in addition to your regular kWh charges from OPALCO. There is no limit to the amount of green power you can purchase.
How much Green Power do you want to buy? Monthly cost on your electric bill? Annual Cost?
100 kWh – $4.00 – $48.
200 kWh – $8.00 – $96.
400 kWh – $16.00 – $192.
800 kWh – $32.00 – $384.
1000 kWh – $40.00 – $480.
Every kWh we generate locally is one less that we have to import from the mainland! Each year OPALCO sends its Green Power subscribers an annual report that documents facts and figures from the program.
Where does the power come from?
Our first priority is to purchase Green Power from local sources. As of May 2008, we have 30 renewable projects connected to our electric grid, generating approximately 148,554 kWh a year. To supplement our supply, OPALCO buys environmentally preferred power (EPP). EPP green power is a blend of new and existing resources from four non-environmental impacting wind projects in Washington, Oregon and Wyoming. These projects have been endorsed by the Northwest Energy Coalition, the Natural Resources Defense Council and the Renewable Northwest Project.
How do I sign up?
Signing up is easy! Simply call the OPALCO office at (360) 376-3500 or -3550, or print a Green Power Sign-up Form , fill it out, and mail it in with your OPALCO payment.