Thomas presented a video on wind turbine generator model to Reps. Diego T. Benavente, R-Saipan, Edwin P. Aldan, Covenant-Tinian, Francisco S. Dela Cruz, Covenant-Saipan, and Sen. Paul A. Manglona, R-Rota.
Thomas said the CNMI should implement rules that will allow the installation of a low-cost, easy-to-install alternative energy in residential and commercial establishments.
“This unit can produce 80 percent of your power,” he stated. “If you want to go into a slightly larger unit, it could produce 100 percent.”
According to Thomas, an individual paying about $1,000 a month for his power consumption, will see a reduction of up to $200 with the use of a wind turbine generator.
But he said his presentation is not a “sales pitch,” but as a way to introduce the concept to the CNMI government.
He noted that the CNMI enacted Public Law 15-23 in 2006 to establish requirements for the use of renewable energy and to implement other energy and cost-saving measures.
Thomas said the CNMI government should now formulate the “regulatory language” espoused by P.L. 15-23.
“We’re just trying to make the laws and regulations applicable because the long-term projects [like] geothermal [energy] would take years to be completed,” Thomas said. “We need something that we can do now. We need immediate relief.”
The wind turbine generator can be installed and be operational in 60 days, he said, adding that the generator’s cost varies as it comes in different sizes.
He added, “This is designed strictly for end-users to be able to put at their house for their use and not to generate power through the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.”
The installation will require the services of a certified electrician or a contractor as required by the Department of Public Works.
Dela Cruz, a member of the House Public Utilities, Transportation and Communications, said the wind turbine generator is “a very viable option.”
Thomas said that he will meet with the CUC Executive Director Antonio S. Muna today to make the same presentation.
“CUC wouldn’t be involved in the installation process,” he added. “CUC would come in for the interconnection agreement.”
