Generating your own electricity can be a great way to save on utility costs and reduce your company's carbon footprint. At the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO), they strive to ensure that the energy produced from renewable and carbon-neutral sources is equal to the amount consumed. UNO also makes the most of existing, efficient building spaces. Local governments can significantly reduce their carbon footprint by either purchasing or directly generating electricity from clean, renewable sources.
Wind energy is especially beneficial in areas with strong gusts, and it works best in rural areas since there is more space available and fewer residents are affected. This means that transmission lines need to be built to cities where most of the energy is used. Recently, Vineyard Wind signed a new agreement with GE Renewable Energy to supply wind turbines, and this will require some time to review their plans and take into account any equipment changes. From 1960 to 1980, renewable energy in Nebraska consisted mainly of conventional hydroelectric power and biomass. If you're looking for ways to go green for your business, you can work with an energy partner to design a renewable energy solution that works for you.
Local governments can lead by example by generating energy on-site, purchasing green energy, or investing in renewable energy. Universities can also use resources more efficiently while providing a safe and healthy environment for their community by designing, constructing, and operating buildings sustainably. As a percentage of primary energy consumption, renewable energy consumption remained relatively stable until 1995 when it began to rise. Nebraska was slow to develop wind energy compared to some of its neighbors, even though the state has some of the most powerful wind resources in the country. Climate Matters is an informational resource program that helps meteorologists and journalists report on climate impacts and solutions locally, immediately, and personally based on the latest scientific advances.
Rich Lombardi, a lobbyist for the Advanced Power Alliance which represents renewable energy companies, said that the wind energy industry wanted renewable energy portfolio standards in Nebraska. The Omaha Public Energy District (OPPD) recognizes the shift to renewable energy and they are here to help all companies achieve their sustainability goals. Nebraska has a unique utility system which contributed to the state's slowness in adopting renewable energy. Facebook's decision to settle in Papillion was due to OPPD's promise to supply 100% renewable electricity to the data center through the Rattlesnake Creek wind farm in Dixon County. Sustainable buildings also tend to have lower operating costs due to their efficient use of resources. With the exception of Wyoming, every state bordering Nebraska has some version of a renewable product portfolio standard which requires utilities to sell certain amounts of renewable energy to their customers.
Renewable resources covered 23 percent of Nebraska's energy consumption as shown in the following data table.
