Proud of my PEI

You guys, I'm pretty proud right now. My little baby Canadian province (just 3,531 square miles & 138,519 residents) is making some good-sized strides for sustainable energy. In short, PEI has nearly completed the second of two wind farms in a plan to reduce carbon emissions. The provincial government hopes to generate 30% of its energy from wind power by 2016. You can read more about their efforts here.

The article brings up the excellent point that the Island does not possess any of its own sources for traditional fuel, like coal, natural gas or petroleum. Therefore, it makes sense for them to explore alternative energy sources. For PEI, wind is a natural choice, as it's an abundant resource there. I can attest - I've stood on its beaches, fished in its waters, and tried to keep clothing on its clotheslines! ;)

Another interesting point the article makes is the accessibility of PEI's major players. Jamie Ballem, the minister of environment & energy, is quoted as saying, "If you're developing a new technology, we're able to provide something nobody else can: a self-contained province where, with two days notice, I can get you a meeting with the premier or the head of the university." Another point to which I can (kind of) personally attest - my ex-boyfriend from PEI once told the premier a very dirty joke at a barbecue! ;)

The newest wind farm, near Elmira, is only about an hour from our house & just 15 minutes from one of our favorite beaches. You can bet I'm going to drag the family there this summer & take some pictures of my own!