EnviroWatts Renewable Energy
Now Available

Green power is now available in west central Ohio. Midwest Electric has started a new renewable energy program called EnviroWatts where members can buy green power for as little as $2 per month.

"The EnviroWatts program is an exciting new program that offers our electric cooperative members the opportunity to support renewable energy and help fund research and development of new energy options for the future," said Manager/CEO Rick Gerdeman.

EnviroWatts is a renewable energy program that gives Midwest Electric members the opportunity to support renewable energy for as little as $2 a month. EnviroWatts is sold in 100-kilowatt hour blocks, for $2 per block, and is available to both residential and business members of the cooperative. Buying just one block of EnviroWatts each month for a year has the environmental impact of not driving your car for three months or not using 2½ barrels of oil.

The renewable energy for the EnviroWatts program comes from methane gas produced from landfills. As organic waste decays, it produces methane gas. Rather than release this gas into the atmosphere, the gas is collected and used to generate electricity. This not only helps improve the environment, but also decreases dependence on fossil fuels, such as coal, natural gas or foreign oil.

A portion of the cost of the 100-kilowatt hour block of EnviroWatts also goes to a renewable energy fund which supports research and development of renewable energy sources in Ohio for electric cooperatives.

"We look forward to being able to offer the EnviroWatts program," Gerdeman said. "It’s important that we care about our environment and support renewable energy sources for the future. And it’s an easy way for co-op members to show they care about the environment – now and in years to come."

Midwest Electric members can sign up for the EnviroWatts program by calling the cooperative at 1-800-962-3830. Or e-mail mberry@midwestrec.com with questions or to sign up.

Midwest Electric is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative that provides electric service to 10,500 homes, farms and businesses in Allen, Auglaize, Mercer, Van Wert, Darke, Shelby and Putnam counties.