We are all connected to a utility grid that supplies our electricity.
These high-voltage transmission lines act as freeways for the electrons
to move from the generator to your home and business. For most of us,
this electricity has traditionally come from large coal, gas or nuclear
power plants.
Things are now changing. Leading utilities are integrating new wind,
solar, geothermal and biomass resources into their energy mix. We
offer two examples from the Los
Angeles Department of Water and Power, and the Ontario,
Canada provincial utility. In both cases, these utilities are signing
contracts with independent power providers who are eager to supply this
clean energy resource. Globally, solar and wind are growing at 20%
and 30% respectively.
This market is being driven by several factors: renewable portfolio standards,
concern over greenhouse gas emissions and cost competitive renewable technologies.
In the last few years, renewables have become a viable business proposition
for these utilities. In addition, transmission lines are being extended
to reach these renewables, often located in remote deserts, mountain passes
and fault zones.
You pay your utility bill every month. What if that electricity came
from wind, solar or geothermal — and was still competitively priced?
Change happens when more of us direct our payments into new, sustainable
technologies. Utilities are listening to their customer needs. Our
request:
