Gov. Edward G. Rendell, D-Pa., says the state is leading the way by increasing the percentage of renewable energy it purchases to run state government operations.
At nearly 30%, the state's total green energy purchase moves Pennsylvania ahead of every other state in terms of how much clean energy it consumes. It also surpasses the 20% goal Rendell established last year.
‘Our commitment to purchasing clean, renewable energy has earned Pennsylvania the honor of being the only state in the country to be included in the top-25 list of renewable energy purchasers," says Rendell.
By modifying its existing contract with Community Energy Inc., the state will purchase 277,399 MWh a year, or 28% of state government's electricity, from renewable wind and hydroelectric sources. The contract calls for electricity that is generated 57% from wind power and 43% from hydroelectric sources. The contract expires on June 30.
With 157,200 MWh of qualifying wind power purchased, Pennsylvania ranks 13th on the Environmental Protection Agency's latest Green Power Partnership.
