The College was recognized for its use and support of wind power at an
award ceremony and press event Feb. 4 in Albany hosted by two environmental groups, an
energy developer and a state energy agency. Last fall, Union joined four other colleges as well as 10
municipalities and six commercial businesses in New York State to convert a portion of their energy
purchases to power derived from windmills.
Although wind power costs slightly more than traditional sources (about
two cents more per kilowatt hour), there is no pollution produced and no fuel
needed in its production. Union is
purchasing 5% of its energy from wind at an additional cost of approximately
$17,000 in its annual electric bills. The wind power, which is part of the
state's energy grid, is produced at the Fenner Wind Project in Madison County,
New York's largest wind farm.
President Roger Hull called the purchase “just another example of Union's commitment to improving the environment.”
He added, “It is part of our obligation as an institution of higher education
to be ahead of the curve and to help set a community standard. As an
emissions-free, natural energy source, wind power clearly must be considered by
all energy consumers.”
Other colleges in the state who purchase wind power are Hobart &
William Smith, Pace University, Bank Street College, and the State University at Buffalo.
The event was hosted by Community Energy Inc., the New York State Energy
Research and Development Authority, Environmental Advocates of New York, and
New York Public Interest Research Group. The recognition plaque, inscribed with
windmills, is hanging in Grant Hall.