Michigan Snowsports Industries Association Renews Commitment to Wind Power

Clarkston, MI (October, 2011) – The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) has renewed its commitment to renewable wind energy by powering its office with wind.

Since 2007, MSIA has purchased wind credits, joining the likes of the University of Michigan, Crystal Mountain, Harvard University, Whole Foods and Vail Resorts in selecting renewable energy as its source for electricity.

This is part of the Michigan ski industry’s ongoing environmental efforts, which also include initiatives by its members in waste reduction, recycling and water conservation.

Though wind energy is more expensive than energy produced by non-renewable sources, MSIA feels the added expense is worthwhile in order to combat global warming and set an industry example. MSIA is working with Boulder, Colorado-based Renewable Choice Energy as their wind power provider.

According to Renewable Choice, powering MSIA’s office with wind helps save up to 12,267 pounds of carbon dioxide pollution from entering the atmosphere each year, or have the effect of planting 50 full-grown trees.

“By taking this step and embracing wind power, MSIA is reinforcing our industry’s commitment to the environment,” said Mickey MacWilliams, MSIA executive director.

Since it is physically impossible at this time to deliver electricity straight from a wind farm to the MSIA office, renewable energy “credits” make purchasing wind power possible. MSIA still purchases its electricity from local provider, DTE Energy. By spending additional money to purchase wind energy credits, MSIA ensures that the amount of electricity that it uses is replaced on the power grid with wind power. Wind farms sell renewable energy credits to better compete with fossil fuels, allowing consumers to choose clean sources of electricity. MSIA’s purchase is contributing to the growth of wind power across the United States. Business and residential consumers are encouraged to purchase energy credits as well. More information is available at www.renewablechoice.com.