Westport becomes First Municipality in Northeast to buy Green Power
WESTPORT, CT — January 23, 2002 — Today, the Westport Board of Selectmen voted to join the not-for-profit Connecticut Energy Cooperative and sign up the Westport Town Hall and most of the Town's Recreation buildings for the Co-op's EcoWatt™ green power offering. EcoWatt™ is 100% renewable electricity that comes from wind, water and recovered methane gas from landfills.
In taking this historic action, Westport becomes the first Municipality in the northeast to sign up for 100% Green-e certified electricity.
"We have a responsibility to set the example," Westport's First Selectwoman, Diane Goss Farrell, said. "The Co-op's EcoWatt™ electricity offering is significantly cleaner, renewable, and supports homegrown New England based sources."
"Westport's leadership in supporting renewable power cannot be understated," Larry Union, General Manager of the Co-op said. "The people of Westport can take great pride in knowing that their town is making a real difference in supporting the development of cleaner sources of power production."
By becoming the first town in the northeast to enroll for renewable electricity Westport has set the stage for other town's to follow. "Clearly Westport's leadership on this issue challenges other municipalities to follow their lead," Union said.
Westport joins a growing number of organizations and households in Connecticut supporting renewable power. Last month, Wesleyan University signed up the Freeman Athletic Center, while Connecticut College became the first college to enroll in September. Over 3,000 households in Connecticut have enrolled for 100% renewable electricity. Any CL&P or UI customer may sign up for the Co-op's renewable power offering. Since CL&P and UI still deliver the power, read the meter, bill, maintain the wires and keep the lights on, no change in reliability, comfort or convenience is experienced by switching to the Co-op.
While the cost is slightly higher, about 25 to 30 cents a day for the average household, many people find that the environmental benefits and the peace of mind of supporting 100% New England based cleaner sources, well worth the small price premium.
To sign up for the Co-op's EcoWatt™ offering, visit their web site at www.EnergyForMe.com or call 888-481-3955.
CT Energy Co-op Contact: Bob Maddox (860) 586-2380
Town of Westport Contact: Diane Goss Farrell (203) 341-1111
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