Posted: Monday, June 29, 2009 12:00 am
The city of Albany has begun buying "Blue Sky" electricity from Pacific Power, and the utility praised the city for its decision, saying it helps support the development of renewable power.
The city council voted 5-1 in April to buy a small amount of Blue Sky power, which Pacific gets from wind, solar and other sources. Councilman Bill Coburn was against it.
The city decided to buy the smallest available block of the power, which costs more than regular power.
The city's annual power bill runs about $1 million, and the Blue Sky portion will cost about $4,500 extra for the year, or less than one half of 1 percent more.
The city staff had recommended the action in an effort to reduce the city's
"environmental footprint."
Pacific called attention to the decision in a statement last week: "Known for its historic downtown, Albany's link back to 19th century Oregon is unmistakable. Now, the city has staked its claim on the 21st century by supporting renewable energy through Pacific Power's Blue Sky program."
It quoted Mayor Sharon Konopa: "It is important for local government to set an example for its citizens and businesses by making an investment in this program for current and future energy needs and to be kinder to our environment. We hope Albany residents will follow our lead."
For Albany, the purchase qualifies the city as a champion-level business partner of Blue Sky. The commitment also makes the city an Environmental Protection Agency Green Power Partner.
By buying 361 blocks of 100 kilowatts each month, about the same amount used by 47 average Albany households each month, the city avoids putting 264 tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and has the same environmental benefit as planting 22,750 trees or annually not driving 535,000 miles, according to Pacific Power.
"Albany is making great strides in sustainability and should be commended for its willingness to invest in the future," said Doris Johnston, regional community manager for Pacific Power.
Blue Sky renewable energy comes from wind, biomass and solar projects, the majority of which are in the Pacific Northwest.
Democrat-Herald