Somerset Windmills

Under a new, 30-month agreement, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission will increase its purchase of Pennsylvania-based wind energy to 10 percent of its statewide electricity needs.

The Turnpike Commission is the first and only toll road agency in the nation to commit to green power, setting a precedent for the entire sector.

The Turnpike will purchase 4.2 million kilowatt hours of wind energy annually from wind-energy marketer and developer Community Energy Inc. of Wayne, Pa. Previously, the Turnpike had purchased wind energy equivalent to 100 percent of its energy usage to operate its certified green building in Harrisburg.

“By expanding our environmental commitment, the Turnpike Commission is pleased to contribute to the development of new clean energy resources in the Commonwealth,” said Turnpike CEO Joe Brimmeier. “We are striving to be a forerunner in the use of alternative energy sources.”

The Turnpike established itself as a national wind energy leader in 2002 through its original agreement to purchase 2.7 million kilowatt hours of wind-generated power per year.

“The Commission continues to exhibit leadership that has directly contributed to the development of new renewable energy sources in the region,” said Brent Alderfer, president and CEO of Community Energy Inc. “The more Pennsylvania customers who purchase clean, emission-free NewWind Energy, the more Pennsylvania wind farms will be brought online, creating jobs, local economic benefit and a better future.”

The energy is locally generated at wind farms in Pennsylvania. One of Pennsylvania’s five wind farms is clearly visible from the Turnpike near Somerset, Pa.

9/30/2005