Kotzebue Electric Association (KEA) has been on the cutting edge of using renewable energy since the early 1990s. By introducing the renewable energy sources solar and wind power, they have reduced the amount of diesel needed to generate energy. The introduction of wind power in Kotzebue displaces 250,000 to 300,000 gallons of diesel fuel every year (that’s about 20% of annual power needs). The excess renewable energy is saved in the battery, which displaces 25, 000 gallons of heating fuel every year.

By changing from non-renewable energy sources to renewables the cost of producing electricity goes down. This results in money savings that goes towards the community and development in other areas. It also decreases the home electricity bills for KEA members.