Climate change is a topic of increasing interest in the energy industry. But what is climate change, how does it affect electric cooperatives, and what does it have to do with West Florida Electric Cooperative’s (WFEC) members? In an effort to clarify this issue, we have tackled some of the basic questions about climate change, and how it affects all of us.

6. What is WFEC doing to address climate change?

Currently, there is a lack of cost-effective technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel-based generation. Cooperatives are working to develop new technologies and energy sources to reduce, avoid, and sequester or store emissions. Co-ops across the nation are using and promoting alternative and renewable energy options, including wind energy, solar energy, hydropower and biomass (methane gas, wood waste, farm byproducts and ethanol). Currently, more than 700 electric co-ops offer renewable energy. In its partnership with Waste Management® and PowerSouth (formerly AEC) WFEC has made its own foray into green power technologies. This methane gas-to-energy facility located at Springhill Landfill produces enough electricity to power 4,000 homes per year.

7.  How can new technologies improve your electric cooperative and climate change concerns?

New technologies that lead to greater energy efficiency are a primary focus for electric cooperatives. These include building modern, environmentally sound power plants and implementing carbon-efficient electric generation, such as nuclear energy, fuel cells and clean-coal technologies. Electric cooperatives are keeping pace with high-tech advancements to improve operations. For example, electric cooperatives currently lead the industry in automated meter technology. WFEC is in the midst of implementing these new technologies. 17,500 meters have currently been changed to automated meter reading devices (AMR). This conversion is expected to be complete by the end of 2008. AMR meters will improve service, lower costs and enhance reliability.

Real-time energy use data will also be available to assist the cooperative with monitoring and managing periods of peak demand. A reduction in demand will reduce the amount of generation capacity required, thereby reducing emissions.

8. What can I do as an electric cooperative member to address concerns about climate change?

Approximately 700 electric cooperatives offer green power from solar, wind, hydroelectric and biomass generation. Cooperatives also encourage energy conservation and efficiency. This includes using compact fluorescent lighting, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and following home improvement tips, such as installing a programmable thermostat or improving insulation. WFEC also offers home energy audits to trouble shoot areas in your home that need repairs or upgrades. Visit our Web site, www.westflorida.coop for more information including a Home Energy Calculator and a do-it-yourself energy audit.

9.  What is the policy debate about climate change like among policymakers and industry leaders, and what do electric cooperatives support?

Climate change issues continue to gain increasing attention in Congress and the utility industry. WFEC supports the research and development of low and zero-emission energy technologies, new energy-efficiency technologies, renewable and alternative energy options, financial incentives to accelerate the use of new technologies and offset higher costs, and will continue to support voluntary, greenhouse gas emissions reduction efforts.

10.  How do international factors affect climate change?

The global population and worldwide demand for fuel are growing significantly. China is the fastest growing major economy in the world, while India runs a close second. This growth means people are driving more cars, building more homes and businesses, and using more fossil fuels to generate electricity, thus leading to more greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, it is necessary that governments around the world support ways to reduce emissions, while they develop long-term climate change solutions and new technologies.