Northern Arizona University and some of the region’s largest electrical power users signed an agreement Tuesday pledging their financial support of renewable energy generation facilities in northern Arizona.
The agreement, called the Power Purchasing Plan Memorandum of Understanding, is sponsored by the Coconino County Sustainable Economic Development Initiative, an organization that promotes local sustainable economics.
By signing this agreement, participants pledge their intent to pay a small premium for renewable energy to support the development of “green” generation facilities in the region. NAU has pledged to purchase 5 percent of its power from renewable sources.
“It is important that NAU participates with other Flagstaff organizations in the collective purchase of renewable energy to demonstrate the university’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate climate change and stimulate the local economy,” said Gary Deason, director of the NAU Center for Sustainable Environments.
Participants, known as the Northern Arizona Renewable Energy Purchasing Group, include NAU, the city of Flagstaff, Coconino County, Coconino Community College, Flagstaff Medical Center, Flagstaff Unified School District, Foresight Wind Energy, Hozho International, Nestle Purina Co., Xanterra Parks and Resorts and Arizona Public Service.
“By signing this agreement, NAU has made a serious commitment to creating opportunities for renewable energy,” said Richard Bowen, associate vice president for Economic Development. “It is better public policy to implement clean energy sources, not just for the university but the state and nation. The university is engaged in significant research to develop better technology and public policy for clean energy.”
For information about the agreement, visit www.ccsedi.org.