MOAB, Utah — One reason why Ken and Connie Turner enrolled in Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky renewable energy program is to help keep Moab’s skies blue.

“This community is very conscious about environmental programs,” said Ken Turner, owner of Turner Lumber of Moab. “It’s why a lot of people move here: the area’s natural beauty, the nearby La Salle Mountains and its clear, blue skies.

“Blue Sky is a part of that ethic.”

Rocky Mountain Power sells Blue Sky renewable energy in 100-kilowatt-hour block increments for $1.95 each, in addition to a customer’s regular monthly electric bill. Turner Lumber, which has been serving the Moab area since 1985, is a champion-level Blue Sky participant, buying 25 blocks each month. That’s the equivalent usage of four average homes. Last November, the U.S. Environmental Agency recognized Utah’s Greater Moab Area as the nation's first Green Power Community.

Blue Sky comes from wind power. Wind is an attractive form of energy generation because it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Wind produces no air pollutants, wastewater, smog or acid rain. Just one block of Blue Sky has the same environmental benefit of either not driving 2,500 miles or planting a half acre of trees. Enrollment is optional and customers can increase their participation or withdraw at any time.

“Plus, Blue Sky has been well received by our customers,” said Turner. “We have quite a few who are enthusiastic about recycling and renewable power.”

Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky is one of the most popular renewable programs in the nation. It currently ranks second in the nation for the number of customers enrolled in green power programs, according to the 2004 Top 10 rankings released by the U.S Department of Energy. More than 39,600 customers buy Blue Sky renewable energy in the Western U.S.

For more information or to sign up for Blue Sky, call 1-800-842-8458 or e-mail  bluesky@pacificorp.com . Customers can sign up on line at www.rockymtnpower.net/bluesky

More about Rocky Mountain Power and Blue Sky

Rocky Mountain Power is the state’s largest electric utility, serving about 722,525 Utah customers with reliable, safe, low-cost electricity. In Utah, more than 15,100 residential and business customers participate. More than 38,500 customers buy Blue Sky in the Western U.S.

Media inquiries: newsdesk@pacificorp.com