Valley Electric Association a ‘leader in renewable energy’
Valley Electric Association is not your typical energy provider. The nonprofit, member-owned electric cooperative operates with the environment in mind, voluntarily promoting a product that significantly reduces energy use.
Each domestic solar water-heating unit VEA installs averts about 3,082 pounds of carbon dioxide per year and offers an average of $250 to $550 in annual energy savings.
Since the program’s inception in 2009, VEA has installed nearly 1,000 units within its 6,800-square-mile service area. That’s 3 million pounds total of carbon dioxide offset each year so far, making it one of the nation’s most successful solar water-heating programs.
Average installation takes about one to two days, said Chris Brooks, vice president of energy services. Based upon the program’s success, VEA is exploring additional renewable energy initiatives such as community solar programs.
“We want to be a leader in renewable energy,” Brooks said.
Why is being green important?
Valley Electric Association supports green initiatives as a result of our ongoing commitment to building a diversified energy portfolio and promoting economic development in Nevada. We strive to promote environmentally responsible programs that reduce energy expenses for our member-owners and create valuable jobs for hardworking Nevadans. Renewable energy projects will play a vital role in Nevada’s economic future, and VEA is committed to advancing these efforts.
How can going green improve productivity?
Implementing green business practices can serve to motivate employees and foster a sense of unity among those who support environmentally responsible programs. VEA is in a unique position, as most of our team members receive electricity from our cooperative. These employees also benefit from VEA’s energy-saving initiatives, and they are invested in our continued efforts to develop new opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
What influenced your decision to pursue green practices?
As a nonprofit, member-owned cooperative, VEA has a unique business model. Our cooperative answers directly to its ratepayers, which allows VEA to pursue innovative renewable energy programs that directly address the needs of community members. As an example, we developed our Domestic Solar Water Heating Program in response to growing demand for an initiative that would help residents reduce their carbon footprint without unnecessary expenses.
How has being green reshaped your company’s public perspective?
VEA has received national recognition for its achievements in promoting the use of green technology. In addition, the tremendous success of VEA’s Domestic Solar Water Heating Program has served to raise awareness about our cooperative’s steadfast commitment to Nevada’s renewable energy industry. We look forward to building upon this reputation in the coming years, as we continue our efforts to position Nevada as a national renewable energy leader.
— Rachel Crosby/Las Vegas Business Press
