SALT LAKE CITY — Working on the front lines of making buildings more efficient has helped etc Group, Inc. better appreciate the importance of renewable energy.

“We understand the complexity of energy supply and demand issues, and the magnitude of the challenges ahead for meeting demand while reducing environmental impacts,” said Patti Lynn Case, etc Group, Inc. vice-president and energy analyst. “We support alternative energy sources that reduce this nation’s reliance on fossil fuels, and we walk that talk by buying Blue Sky.”

Rocky Mountain Power’s Blue Sky program gives customers large and small a way to grow the demand for clean, renewable wind energy and to take advantage of its environmental benefits. It is sold in 100 kilowatt-hour increments, called blocks, for $1.95 per block per month in addition to a customer’s regular bill.

etc Group, Inc. is buying 10 blocks of Blue Sky wind energy per month, which offsets 12 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year. That has the environmental benefit of planting five acres of trees or not driving 25,710 miles.

Located at 1997 South 1100 East in Salt Lake City, etc Group, Inc. is a woman-owned business providing technical analysis in support of energy efficient design. The firm conducts energy studies, technical audits and cost benefit studies, and analysis and design assistance for proposed capital improvement projects. It also provides education activities designed to increase energy efficiency in Utah’s commercial and industrial businesses.

“I think about half of the etc Group employees buy Blue Sky for their homes,” said Case. In addition, our business constantly is evaluating ways to be more environmentally sensitive and we share that information through our consulting services.”

Case said these efforts include recycling, installing high-efficiency lighting and office equipment, car-pooling and using alternative modes of transportation.

Buying wind energy through Blue Sky is an attractive form of energy generation because it helps offset 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 planting a half acre of trees or not driving 2,500 miles. Enrollment is optional and customers can increase their participation or withdraw at any time.

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