Port expects to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions through PSE program

BELLINGHAM, Wash. — The Port of Bellingham expects to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions dramatically by using 100% renewable energy.

The Port is joining Puget Sound Energy’s Green Direct program, which now has a total of 41 customers receiving renewable power generated from local resources including the Skookumchuck Wind Energy Project.

Adrienne Hegedus with the Port says they expect to see a slight cost saving for electricity while reducing annual greenhouse gas emissions by 86%.

She said part of the appeal of the program is that the rates are guaranteed over the life of their 18-year commitment so the Port will not be subject to normal price fluctuations.

The Port joins Whatcom County, the City of Bellingham and Western Washington University as local public sector energy users enrolled in the Green Direct Program.