Jan 2024 CarbonBetter® Impact Update
Every month we share the positive impact our customers have made through their use of CarbonBetter-certified 100% energy, which is included in every Provision clean energy supply plan. Each customer on these plans receives an email with their personal impact for the month, and this blog post reflects the impact all of our customers have made together since we became CarbonBetter-certified in October 2020.
We’re honored to be able to provide affordable clean energy that makes a real difference. Check out all of our past Impact Updates here!
Our Customers’ CarbonBetter Impact – Jan 2024 Update
112.2k
mWh
Provision customers have funded 112,223 mWh of clean energy generation, which could power 12,067 homes for a year.*
80.5k
tons
Provision customers have offset 80,479 tons of carbon, which is like avoiding over 205 million miles of driving.**
86.3k
trees
Provision customers have funded planting 86,348 trees, which may sequester 1424 tons of carbon in their lifetime.***
Want to be included in our next impact update?
It’s easy to contribute to the positive impact we make each month. All Provision energy plans include CarbonBetter clean energy, which helps you make a difference automatically when you use energy at home.
Our customers help fund clean energy generation through renewable energy certificates, offset carbon through carbon credits, and plant trees to aid in reforestation and increase our natural carbon-capturing capabilities. It’s never too late to start using your energy for good.
Jan 2024 Featured Project: Settlers Trail Wind Farm
Courtesy of AltEnerg.com.
About the Project
The Settlers Trail Wind Farm, located in Illinois, is an essential renewable energy initiative contributing to the state’s clean energy goals. Commissioned in 2011, this 150-megawatt wind farm is operated by EDP Renewables North America. The project consists of 94 turbines, which collectively generate substantial amounts of renewable electricity, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) Explained
100% renewable electricity is included automatically in every Provision electricity supply plan, and we use renewable energy certificates, or RECs, to deliver on our clean energy promise. Homes are connected to the power grid by transmission lines, and the electricity that’s supplied is derived from a variety of generation resources, both renewable and non-renewable. This is because when clean energy is generated and put on the grid, it’s mixed with other fuel sources, making it difficult for environmentally conscious consumers to supply their homes with 100% clean energy.
Provision ensures more clean energy is put on the grid by funding renewable generators by purchasing RECs. These certificates support electricity generation equal to the volume consumed by Provision customers, thus leading to a cleaner grid and delivering on pour 100% clean energy promise. So far, Provision customers have helped fund over 70,000 Megawatt-hours (mWh) of renewable electricity using RECs.
How It Works
The Settlers Trail Wind Farm harnesses wind energy using 94 turbines. Each turbine converts the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical energy, which is then transformed into electrical energy through a generator. The generated electricity is transmitted to the grid, where it can be distributed to homes and businesses. The wind farm’s operation involves regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and minimal environmental impact. The strategic placement of turbines maximizes wind capture and energy production, contributing significantly to Illinois’ renewable energy output.
Project Benefits
The Settlers Trail Wind Farm stands as a beacon of sustainable energy, offering a multitude of benefits to both the environment and the local community. Located strategically in the windy plains of Illinois, the wind farm offsets approximately 241,600 tons of CO2 annually. This significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions plays a crucial role in combating climate change, highlighting its pivotal role in environmental conservation.
Beyond environmental gains, the wind farm breathes new life into the local economy. It creates permanent jobs, supports local businesses, and spurs infrastructure development. The benefits ripple through the community, enhancing livelihoods and fostering economic resilience. Importantly, the project harmonizes with local recreational activities. It occupies minimal land footprint, ensuring ample space for activities like hiking and wildlife observation. This coexistence promotes sustainable energy awareness among locals and visitors alike, underscoring the farm’s role as a model of responsible energy development.
Conclusion
The Settlers Trail Wind Farm exemplifies a successful renewable energy project, significantly contributing to Illinois’ clean energy goals. Through the purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates, Provision supports the generation of clean energy and helps reduce carbon emissions. This project not only provides substantial environmental benefits but also supports the local economy and promotes sustainable energy practices. Check out Provision’s plans in your area to join the effort in supporting renewable energy initiatives.
Switch to Provision and make a positive impact on the planet through your energy consumption!
Every Provision Customer Makes a Difference
About CarbonBetter Impact Calculations:
*The typical home in your area uses 9,300 kWh of electricity per year.
**https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gases-equivalencies-calculator-calculations-and-references#gasoline
***https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gases-equivalencies-calculator-calculations-and-references#seedlings
Impact is calculated based on our customers’ billings in the impact month, but planting, funding, and offsetting may not happen in that month. These activities must align with planting seasons and project life cycles to be effective. If you have any questions, please contact us at hello@getprovision.com.
