Listen now: Wallowa Resources Podcast spotlights local micro hydropower projects

Northeast Oregons Wallowa County has a special history with micro hydropower plants. Some tasks even date as far back as the late 1800s, when 4 micro hydropower plants were set up in the countys largest towns.
In a recent installation of the Wallowa Resources Podcast, manufacturer and host Emily Branigan dives deeper into the countys tradition of micro hydropower jobs. After detailing more about how hydropower works and what micro hydropower projects are, the episode shares a story about a recent regional update.
Spaur Ranchs introduction of 2 new hydropower centers started in 2011. The very first center was so effective, that a second facility was added simply five years later on. Homeowner Vern and Marti Spaur worked with Energy Trust of Oregon and Community Solutions, Inc (CSI) to balance out the cost and make it occur. The 100% sustainable cattle ranch now conserves a lot on energy costs, they are sometimes able to donate the additional power they produce to charity, to assist those in need lower their power costs.
” It has actually deserved it– every cent,” stated Vern Spaur. “The type of system we have is so simple, so effective, however it has to be the ideal type of residential or commercial property– but Wallowa County has great deals of potential.”
The choice to complete a micro hydropower project might sound daunting, however as detailed in the podcast, it can be a lot easier than anticipated. Energy Trust supports tasks that increase energy efficiency by supplying cash incentives for qualified devices upgrades. These rewards, combined with the quantity of money upgrades can save money on regular monthly utility expenses, decrease upfront expenses and reduce the payback period for the upgrade.
Listen to the full podcast episode and check out Energy Trusts website to find out about incentives for energy efficiency and renewable resource, including hydropower.