The economic downfall in 2009, didn’t tarnish sustainable development in green technology for Nevada. Apparently, Nevada has improved tremendously in the use of alternative sources of energy.
With flying colours, Nevada is ranking best in the provision of geothermal energy, based on the measure of watts provided per customer. The perceptive strategy of establishing a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) was launched in 1997. Today, its intense support to its commitment is providing a steady source of energy. According to plans, as much as 20% of Nevada’s energy demand will come from renewable sources of energy by 2015. This includes wind, solar and geothermal energy.
Investment in the field is not showing signs of slow down. In year 2012, an increase in supply by 1,000 MW will be generated from geothermal, biomass, hydro generation and 500 MW will be sole provided through wind energy. The geothermal potential capacity in Nevada is between 1,488 to 2,895 MW according to Geothermal Task Force.
Nevada has established a long-term focus on energy plans. An example is, Nevada Solar One, 64-MW plant developed by Acciona Solar Power. Nevada Solar One is actually graced with being the worlds’ biggest solar plant built in the past 15 years. Moreover, the biggest solar photovoltaic installation built in North America is situated in the southern part of Nevada. The Nellis Air Force Base Solar Power system produces 30 million kilowatt-hours (KWh) through a year.
Apart from Federal initiative, private companies are also entering the game. A burnishing icon is Peppermill Resort Spa Casino in Reno, which is extensively investing in renewable energy. It injected a total of $8.1 million in geothermal projects.
Other companies involved in green technology are Electra Therm, Inc and Mariah Power. Mariah Power is more extensively in the field of generating energy from natural wind. The latter’s Windspire wind turbine generates an approximate of 2000 Kilowatts-hours (KWh) per year. Moreover, Reno’s Ormat Technologies, Inc provides around 1200 MW of energy from geothermal power.
In Nevada, there are packages of benefits offered to companies that engage in green investment. This includes tax credits and other sort of financial savings. Nevada is likely to become significant leader in green technology in the future.
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