The Renewable Energy Initiative committee consists of 7 student members that vote on committee decisions and 5 faculty/staff advisors that assist in the implementation of renewable energy systems on campus. The REI is charged with funds generated by a student green fee that is used towards bringing renewable energy technology to Appalachian State University.

Some of the other projects orchestrated by the group are a biodiesel filling station for the university bus system, several photovoltaic arrays, and multiple solar thermal systems. In addition to administering the use of these funds, the REI is intent on promoting awareness of the benefits of renewable energy and the importance of reducing our carbon footprints.

The turbine is unique from other REI projects not only because it is their first incorporation of wind energy, but also because the committee partnered with the local utility, New River Light & Power, to finance the project. The Senior Class of 2009 also made a contribution to the turbine. Alteris Renewables, recently ranked as the fastest growing renewable energy company in the Northeast, installed the Northwind 100KW wind turbine.

“With the installation of this wind turbine Appalachian State has sent a strong message about the importance of fighting climate change,” said Bob Chew, president of the Wind Division of Alteris Renewables, “Alteris Renewables is pleased to have helped make this project a success.”

About Appalachian State University
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northwestern North Carolina, Appalachian State University has built a national reputation for providing outstanding academics. Nestled at the base of Howard's Knob, the university is located in downtown Boone, NC (year-round pop. 15,000), a small town which thrives as one of the Southeast's premier tourism and outdoor recreation destinations. The nearby Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest provide a beautiful natural setting with unlimited possibilities for outdoor adventure.

About Alteris Renewables
Alteris Renewables is the largest design-build renewable energy company in the Northeast, with more than 2,250 completed installations across six states. Ranked as one of the top ten fastest growing energy companies in the Inc. 500, Alteris provides turn-key solar electric (photovoltaic or PV), solar thermal, and wind energy solutions for commercial, residential, education, government and institutional clients. The company has industry-leading expertise in engineering, design, project management, performance analysis, project financing and
renewable energy credit programs. More information about the company can be found on their website www.AlterisInc.com.