ENERGY SPOTLIGHT
Clean Options for Meeting Energy Needs Learn More To learn more about
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reinvested these dollars into Idaho’s own clean energy resources?”
ICL’s climate change work, go to www. idahoconservation.org Read a related article on proposed coal transport on page 8.
Idaho has a vast amount of clean energy resources. ICL commissioned a study that came back with some surprising findings. We sit atop a tremendous geothermal resource that has twice the power of the Bridger coal plant that we tap in Wyoming. Idaho’s hydropower legacy could generate hundreds of megawatts more if ancient equipment at existing dams were updated. Idaho’s wind potential is twice our energy needs, while our solar potential is 370 times larger. Most importantly, Idaho can reduce overall energy needs by 20 to 30 percent, the output of one coal plant, for less than it costs to buy additional power. Investing in these resources keeps our money in Idaho, employing our neighbors and building our tax base, and it prevents carbon pollution.
Idaho’s wind potential is twice our energy needs
Last year ended with a major case on this issue before the Idaho Public Utilities Commission. Idaho Power proposed to
pour more money into the Bridger coal plant in Wyoming. ICL explained that the company had not adequately considered other options, like investing in Idaho’s own energy resources. While the PUC allowed Idaho Power to move forward, it also said that “the detrimental effects of long-term coal use on human health, the climate, wildlife, land, and water are well documented.” Because of these impacts, the PUC admonished Idaho Power to assess alternatives. The agency also put the ball in ICL’s court to demonstrate that viable clean energy alternatives exist. Our study of energy options is the first step. Now we see that Idaho could cut coal from our diet. Whether it’s the Bridger plant powering southern Idaho or the Colstrip plant feeding the north, Idaho has viable alternatives to these plants. Over the coming year, we will continue to show that investing in Idaho’s homegrown energy is the best way to protect our pocketbooks, and more importantly, the wonderful quality of life that is Idaho. Ben Otto Energy Associate
botto@idahoconservation.org
You can help! Make a gift to support ICL’s energy program today, and your gift will be matched up to $20,000 by the Energy Foundation.
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