Some critics and energy analysts may argue that alternative energy will not replace fossil fuels in our lifetime, but many individuals and communities in Kentucky are begging to differ.
Why communities and not utilities?
Utilities have little incentive to make the switch. Like any other major fuel source of our past and present, we need government support – more tax credits, subsidies. But until there are more strict mandates, utilities will continue to do what any company’s main goal is: Profit. It is no secret that currently, alternatives are more costly for utilities than traditional fossil fuels.
People are starting to take the issue into their own hands.
Coal-fired power plants provide about 92 percent of Kentucky’s electric power, and the state enjoys some of the lowest rates in the nation. Yet, unlike geographically distant politicians and policy makers, two Harlan County towns understand the detrimental health effects that coal is causing to their Appalachian citizens.
Benham and Lynch, KY have active residents in Kentuckians for the Commonwealth (KFTC), a grassroots organization that believes in empowering citizens “to challenge injustices, and improve the quality of life for all.” The Massachusetts Institute of Technology has provided Benham with two reports that model the development of locally owned wind power and other strategies for energy efficiency and other local renewable energy. In Lynch, city residents are protecting their water sources from surrounding coal mines and developing plans for economic development from energy efficiency.
What’s important about these two towns is that the leaders of these green initiatives are local. They understand the detrimental effects of coal and take pride in their communities. The residents aren’t trying to make a quick buck; they’re trying to save themselves and future generations by thinking in sustainable, economically logical ways.
The Appalachian mountaintops provide an excellent source of wind energy. Preventing further mountaintop removal is imperative for success of wind. The residents are well aware and have taken measures to protect their resources. The creek that runs through both of the towns would provide an excellent source of water power. Benham residents are demanding accountability and transparency among their city’s Power Board by actively monitoring policy and rates. Read more about Harlan County’s initiatives.
Family power.
Though smaller-scale, individual families are taking action as well. In Franklin County, one family cut their energy bills by 60 percent in 2007 through renovation and energy efficiency measures. A solar water heater and electric system now meet 100% of their electric needs. Now, they can actually make money by providing excess energy back to the utility.
Other Kentucky families are taking advantage of geothermal energy. The installation of geothermal technology is not cheap, but because of cost savings that the systems provide, the payback period is as low as three to five years – households can save $1500 or more per year.
Kentucky communities can learn from other American towns.
Take Greensburg, Kansas, a small town that was almost completely destroyed by a 2007 tornado. Greensburg residents reconstructed their once obliterated town into one of the most environmentally friendly places in the world, receiving most of their power supply from wind turbines.
Community solar projects are taking off in the Bay Area of California. Oakland’s Asian Resource Center’s crowdfunding model is a first. The model works through a collaboration between a solar finance company and a community building. Share purchasers aren’t just investing in alternatives; they’re investing in their community.
Besides the obvious environmental benefits, economic and social benefits are promising.
Economic.
- Short and long-term job creation
- More energy dollars stay in the local community
- Increased technical skills of citizens
- Better generation match to customer load
- Reduced dependence on foreign fuels
Social.
- Opportunities for local participation
- Greater capacity and interest in future initiatives
- Gives citizens a voice
- Offers skills training in communities where it’s often needed
- May become a source of pride and identity
If you want alternative energy to power your world, get involved in your own community. Listed below are some resources to help you get started.
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