Penn State has been purchasing renewable energy since 2001.  In 2006, the university executed new contracts for a 5-year term,purchasing an annual supply for 20% of universities electrical energy consumption. 

An analysis of the electricity consumed at the University Park campus showed an annual consumption of 320,000 MWh.  A similar analysis for the campuses (not including Hershey Medical Center, Penn College or the Research Centers) showed an annual consumption of 100,000 MWh.

Contracts signed in 2006 include multiple sources of renewable energy with all sources certified by Green-e Standard for Renewable Energy Products.  Penn State's Renewable Energy Portfolio currently consists of the following:

• Pennsylvania Based Wind Energy - 17,600 MWH
• National Based Wind Energy - 16,500 MWH
• National Based Biomass - 16,500 MWH
• National Based LIHI Hydro - 33,000 MWH
• Total Purchase - 83,600 MWH

• Reduces the Environmental Footprint of the University
  
• Contributes to greenhouse gas emission reduction goals
  
• "It is the right thing to do."
• Supports the F&B Environmental Strategy
• Green energy certificates permit us to continue to shop our electric accounts to get the lowest price
• PA based generation, offsetting coal and other fossil fuel generation emissions in PA
• Supports PA economy in construction and service sectors - could help smaller schools with pricing
• Penn State has positioned itself as a leader in promoting the clean energy field

As a result of the contract, Penn State was able to join the Green Power Partnership. 

Recently the EPA recognized Penn State as a top green power purchaser among colleges and universities.  Top 10 College and University Partners

• American Wind Energy Association
• DOE - Wind Energy Program
• National Wind Technology Center
• National Wind Coordinating Committee
• The Illustrated History of Wind Power Development
• DOE - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
• PA Wind Map