Originally published December 14 2005
University leads the push toward green energy solutions
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Through a student-funded initiative, Western Washington University has purchased 100 percent of its power supply from green energy sources, placing it among the nation's top 25 buyers of renewable energy.
Without flipping a switch or changing a bulb, Western Washington University's power purchases became 100 percent green this fall, making it among the nation's top 25 buyers of renewable energy.
Through a student-conceived, student-funded initiative WWU is buying about 35 million kilowatt-hours of wind, biomass, landfill gas and solar power for the 2005-06 school year - enough electricity to run the campus, or about 2,900 homes.
Through Puget Sound Energy's Green Power Program students voluntarily pay for an overall increase in statewide renewable energy production, reducing the need for conventional, less environmentally friendly energy flowing into the power grid.
Student organizer Erica Althans-Schmidt said the program appealed to her because it seemed like something that could make a difference.
Western's contribution is expected to be 25 percent to 30 percent of the total renewable energy PSE sells in 2006 through the Green Power Program, making WWU the power company's biggest green power customer, said Mike Richardson, manager of PSE's renewable energy customer programs.
For Western's 13,000 students, the increase amounts to a self-imposed, per-quarter fee of $1.05 a credit, up to $10.50 for 10 or more credits, said university communications director Lynne Masland.
Facilities management director Tim Wynn said paying for renewable energy will increase the university's electric bill about $350,000 this academic year.
GOING GREEN In the spring of 2003, a number of students were moved to action by their Environmental Studies teacher, Scott Brennan.
The women explained that the university wouldn't have to come up with any more money if students agreed to make up the cost difference.
In the spring of 2004, the student initiative passed with 84.7 percent approval, and the WWU board of trustees approved the fee.
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