Video: Renewable Energy from Dairyland Power Cooperative
At Polk-Burnett we believe in conservation and the efficient use of energy. We support research of low and zero-emissions energy and the development of cost-effective renewable and alternative energy options. As demand for energy increases, Americans must generate more power, while learning to consume less. Polk-Burnett is dedicated to meeting these goals by:
- Encouraging the use of compact fluorescent lighting and offering rebate incentives.
- Promoting load management with off-peak electric products and rates to reduce the need for coal power generation.
- Sharing home improvement tips to help members conserve energy and save.
- Offering energy consultations and home performance tests to improve your home’s energy use. Contact member services, 800-421-0283, ext. 318/319.
- Providing financial incentives to accelerate the use of new technologies through rebates, grants and net metering programs. Net metering means the co-op will purchase excess power generated by renewable sources at a rate equal to our kWh charge.
- Offering Evergreen Energy to support the generation of renewable power.
- Supplying members with electricity from a diverse mix of renewable sources, including:
Cow power
Cows aren’t just for milk anymore. Biomass power plants, like the animal waste-to-energy facilities owned by Polk-Burnett’s energy supplier, Dairyland Power Cooperative, use dairy cow manure as an energy source to generate renewable energy. Cow manure is collected and heated to create methane gas and fuel generators. This cow power not only creates clean electricity, but it also helps farmers reduce biowaste.
Water power
One of the basic four elements, water, is an excellent natural resource for generating renewable energy. Dairyland Power Cooperative, Polk-Burnett’s energy supplier, has owned the Flambeau Hydroelectric Station since 1951. This 22 MW water-powered generating facility is located on the Flambeau River near Ladysmith, Wisconsin. Water from Lake Flambeau, formed by the construction of a dam, supplies the energy to power the plant’s generators. Water flows through the generators and down the Flambeau River.
Landfill gas power
Polk-Burnett’s energy supplier, Dairyland Power Cooperative, provides renewable energy from landfill gas-to-energy facilities. As trash decomposes, it produces methane gas, which fuels generators and creates electricity. This innovative technology turns something negative (garbage) into a positive (renewable energy).
Wind power
One of the most recognized renewable energies is wind. Currently, Dairyland Power Cooperative, Polk-Burnett’s energy supplier, has enough wind energy to power 4,800 residential homes. In 2008, Dairyland doubled its investment in wind generation from 18 MW to 38 MW at its wind farm in Adams, Minnesota.
Biomass power
A biomass plant, expected to come online this summer, will burn wood waste, chips and sawdust to meet the energy needs of 28,000 homes. This new power plant will bring our renewable total to about 10 percent. (Coal remains our primary source of power in Wisconsin.)
Read more about Evergreen Energy to support the generation of additional renewable power.
For more information, contact member services, 800-421-0283, ext. 318/319 or submit an information request form.
Conserving energy, promoting renewables, protecting the environment and controlling costs; that's the cooperative difference!