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Purchasing renewable energy avoids carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from conventional power plants using nonrenewable fossil fuels. Buying one kWh block has the same environmental benefit as:
NOT driving your car for 1,800 miles.
Avoiding 140 lbs of CO2 emissions from a coal fired power plant.
The Green Power program provides an opportunity for all of our members to get involved and make a difference. Using energy efficiently and the Green Power program are avenues that provide us with a way to use power and natural resources wisely with less environmental impacts.
The renewable energy program was developed in 1998 by energy professionals at your local co-op’s wholesale power provider, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association in Westminster, Colo. The program enables co-op consumers to purchase, at an additional cost, Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) that are produced by renewable generation such as wind, solar, geothermal, small hydroelectric and biomass production.
Each 100-kilowatt-hour block, or “green block” will cost an additional $1.00 per month on your monthly electricity bill. So, if you choose to purchase one block (100 kWh), and your average monthly bill is $70, your bill would be $71.00. You may purchase as many green blocks as you want. SMPA Customer Service Representatives can help you determine what amount is right for you.
Electricity generated by the renewable program is fed into the electrical grid. Electrical energy to your home is drawn from that system. Of course, you cannot be sure that the electrons flowing into your home are actually generated by wind, small hydroelectric facilities and biomass production. But, your participation in the program supports the development, construction and operation of renewable energy production.
You may participate in the renewable energy program by contacting your local SMPA office. You can also print the forms found under the Sign Up tab, fill in the required information and return them to your local SMPA office via mail or walk-in. Each consumer who chooses to participate in the program is committing to purchase at least one, 100-kilowatt-hour block of electricity per month from renewable resources. Commitment to the renewable energy program is for a minimum of one year.
This program is a simple and rewarding way for customers and SMPA to partner and raise money to support local renewable energy projects.
This is how it works. SMPA rounds up the electric bills of participating customers to the nearest dollar amount. For example, if a bill is $72.71, a customer will pay $73, with all 29 cents going directly to a fund that is allocated for local renewable projects.
On average, a customer will contribute less than $6 a year but no more than $11.88 annually. If a customer chooses to discontinue contributions at any time, they may simply contact SMPA and cancel. 
Green Cents funds will be used for the development of renewable energy projects within SMPA’s service territory to benefit our member owners.
You may participate in the renewable energy program by contacting your local SMPA office. You can also print the forms found under the Sign Up tab, fill in the required information and return them to your local SMPA office via mail or walk-in.
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