More electric co-ops in US are sourcing renewable energy

More electric co-ops in the US are moving towards renewable energy sources, prompted by increased consumer concern over the environment and the prospect of lower operating costs. A number of co-ops across the States have already started work switching to wind or solar generation, but the move has not been without problems. Several electric co-ops are tied up in deals with power generator Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association – which generates half its supply from coal – with some opting to buy their way out. One of those, Kit Carson, is now partnering with Guzman Energy to construct a solar array on Northern New Mexico College’s El Rito Campus. In response, Tri-State itself has indicated an intention to move away from fossil generation, and has just retired its Nucla coal station in western Colorado three years ahead of schedule to help the state’s plan to improve air quality.