The college has entered into a two-year agreement with Community Energy, Inc. to purchase 4,410 megawatt hours of electricity, approximately 30 percent of its annual usage, as Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) in wind power. Community Energy, Inc. is a nonprofit wind turbine farm developer.

The shift from traditional sources of electrical power to wind-generated power is expected to save the college about $1 million in energy costs over the next two years, in addition to upholding the institution’s increasing commitment to sustainable practices. The purchase also qualifies Columbia for membership in the Green Power Leadership Club, a national initiative of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.