The Renewable Energy Initiative (REI) of Appalachian State University is holding its official ribbon-cutting event on Nov. 12 at 3 p.m. for the 100KW wind turbine successfully installed at the university-owned Broyhill Inn and Conference Center.

The project, installed by Alteris Renewables, was completed this past summer. The turbine is currently the largest wind development in the state of North Carolina.

The Renewable Energy Initiative committee consists of seven student members who vote on committee decisions and five faculty/staff advisors who 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 toward  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 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, a spokesperson for the REI said. 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."