Co-op provides green power for Mesa Verde National Park's new visitor center

Home for the 4th of July recess, U.S. Rep. John Salazar was available to share some good news about a large appropriation secured for Mesa Verde National Park.  Park officials and other local community leaders gathered near the north entrance of the park on July 1 to hear that monies will now be available for a long awaited visitor and curatorial center. 

The new facility will incorporate the most efficient and sustainable techniques, including the installation of eight solar photovoltaic panels that allow the park to generate some power onsite.  For the park’s additional energy requirements, the local electric cooperatives Empire Electric Association is selling nearly 1,000 blocks of green power for the new cultural center and two existing facilities.

“It’s a pleasure being here today to celebrate one of American’s greatest historical and cultural resources, while at the same time commending Mesa Verde’s commitment to utilizing natural, renewable resources as it makes plans for the future,” said Rep. Salazar.

Earlier this year, Mesa Verde National Park superintendent Larry Weise contacted the Empire Electric to inquire about purchasing renewable energy certificates (REC) to offset its electricity use.  By purchasing approximately 1,000 blocks per month of green power, Mesa Verde will be powering its entire operations with domestic, renewable energy.   

As Empire Electric’s power supplier, Tri-State purchases the renewable energy on the open market through RECs derived from wind, solar, small hydroelectric and biomass energy projects.  For 10 years, Tri-State and its member systems have supported the continued development of renewable energy resources through its green power program. 

Empire Electric’s Doug Sparks and Tri-State board member Jim Lawrence acknowledged the renewable contributions of the park for the future facility and presented a 100% Green Power certificate on behalf of the two electric cooperative.

Sparks commended the environmental leadership of Wiese who was instrumental in Mesa Verde’s decision to participate in the voluntary green power program. By purchasing 1,000 (100 kilowatt-hour) blocks per month of green power, Mesa Verde will be the first and only federal organization on Empire’s system to participate in the green power program.

Wiese said, “We can use this opportunity to educate the public on renewable energy.”

Initial construction for the new cultural center has already begun using $25 million that was awarded to the park from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Road construction is underway and other related projects include water line repair and renewable energy systems. “This project is energizing all of us again,” said Weise.

Updated: July 8, 2009