Teton Gravity Research (TGR) just flipped the switch in their offices, committing to run their Wilson, WY headquarters on 100% local Green Power. This decision ensures that all of the electricity purchased by TGR is through verified Green Power sources. In this case, Horse Butte Wind Farm outside Idaho Falls, ID, Pleasant Valley Wind Farm in Evanston, WY and Swift and Strawberry Creek micro-hydro facilities in Star Valley, WY.
Teton Gravity Research has been a long-time advocate for combating climate change. Over the past 10 years, they have made numerous changes in their own practices, such as investing in carbon offsets for their production footprint and completing an energy audit and LED lighting project at their Wilson, WY offices. The audit and lighting project were completed in partnership with Lower Valley Energy and Energy Conservation Works. TGR has also partnered with Protect Our Winters, Surfrider, BICEP and 1% for the Planet on a number of climate initiatives.
In their own industry, Teton Gravity Research has advocated for action through their various media outlets, writing dozens of articles on the topic as well as producing a feature-length film, Generations, addressing, ‘the consequences of climate change and… what you can do to make a difference.’ Teton Gravity Research’s latest commitment goes beyond the effect of its own kilowatts coming from cleaner, renewable sources. If the past is any indication of the future, hopefully, TGR will assist in encouraging a larger audience to switch to renewable energy.
“Everything we do at TGR is pertinent to a healthy environment. Our lives are based on it. We are constantly striving to improve and minimize our environmental impact. We still have a long way to go. Our latest progression is going to 100% renewable wind power for our Wilson, WY headquarters. We’re excited about the opportunity to join up with Lower Valley Energy and the Energy Conservation Works to pursue Green Power in Teton County.” – Steve Jones
A Green Power option has existed in the Jackson Hole area since 2007, starting with an option to buy Green Power ‘Blocks.’ In September 2017, Lower Valley Energy (LVE) and Energy Conservation Works (ECW) partnered to encourage growth in the Green Power Program. Since then over 500 residential and business customers have made the switch to Green Power. Following this summer’s signups, with the most recent addition of Teton Gravity Research, our local grid mix is now roughly 13% (waiting on confirmation) Green Power, and we have one of the highest voluntary participation rates for Green Power in the country.
“With the most recent addition of Teton Gravity Research, along with the 40 other businesses that have signed up for the Green Power program, our hope is that we are nearing critical mass. Meaning that in the future, when a new business opens, or an existing business examines their electricity usage, they feel that it is the norm to spend a little bit more to support and buy local Green Power,” says Energy Conservation Works’ Program Coordinator, Hannah Breslin. “Jackson Hole has such a strong heritage of conservation,” she continued. “It is exciting to see the community continue to invest in that legacy.”
Teton Gravity Research is the third major organization in Jackson Hole to switch to 100% Green Power in the past month. Their decision follows that of Center for the Arts and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort made just a week prior. Any Lower Valley Energy member can choose to run their home or business on green power.
