Many of us Pennsylvania locals frequently travel the “Turnpike,” and enjoy its convenience.  But, did you know that their facilities buy wind power?  It’s true –  the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission purchases wind-generated Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to offset 100% of their electricity usage.  And, these RECs are generated, by wind farms here in Pennsylvania. 

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, headquartered in Harrisburg, PA, has long been a supporter of regionally generated wind power, and was one of the first groups to make a commitment of this kind.  Their initial purchase was in 2002, when the REC market was just getting started and there were only a few wind farms in the entire state.  Today, the Turnpike’s commitment is in its 7th year and their leadership has been recognized by inclusion in the Penn Future Energy Hall of Fame.  Their purchase of regionally generated RECs has, and will continue to fuel the development for more Pennsylvania based wind farms, which now number a dozen according to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA).  Their current purchase of 4,167,000 kilowatt hours of carbon-free wind power has the estimated environmental benefit equivalent to planting 2,430 acres of trees or not driving 6.2 million miles every year!

Community Energy applauds the PA Turnpike’s commission to wind power and their outstanding leadership in the state.   The next time you are cruising down the Turnpike, keep their commitment in mind and enjoy the beautiful wind farm projects that you may pass along the way.  Thank you Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission for making a difference!