HOK, a global architectural design and services firm, has made a landmark purchase of renewable energy credits from wind farms to offset 100% of the annual electricity used in its offices worldwide. Coinciding with Earth Day 2006 and its theme of “Climate Change Solutions,” HOK's purchase of more than 4 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of wind marks the single-largest commitment to wind energy by an architectural firm.

HOK’s investment in wind power will prevent more than 5.6 million pounds of carbon dioxide pollution in the next year. To have the same environmental impact, more than 768 acres of trees would have to be planted.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the conventional means of producing electricity (primarily by burning fossil fuels) is the leading cause of industrial air pollution. Through the certified renewable energy credit program, any business—regardless of location—can offset its power consumption with renewable energy. While HOK’s offices will continue to use electricity from their local utility (which comes from a common “grid” via a mixture of sources), buying renewable energy credits ensures that the energy put back into the grid comes from new, cleaner sources.

“Offsetting our electricity consumption with 100% renewable energy is a tangible and meaningful way to contribute to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions and the continued development of clean energy solutions,” said HOK Chairman Bill Valentine. "We seek sustainable solutions in every project we undertake and are committed to 'walking the talk' in our own operations.”

HOK is purchasing more than 4 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of American Wind, a blend of wind power certificates from new wind farms nationwide. American Wind is Green-e certified, meeting the highest environmental and consumer protection standards.

“HOK joins a growing list of companies that are making renewable energy purchases to do something positive for the environment," said Blair Swezey, Principal Policy Advisor at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado. "These companies are also seeking alternatives to conventional fossil fuels that continue to rise in price."

HOK has chosen Boulder, Colorado-based Renewable Choice Energy as its exclusive supplier of renewable energy credits. Renewable Choice Energy is the leading grassroots renewable energy company, working with architects, designers and building owners to bring affordable green power to buildings nationwide.

“HOK has shown foresight that the decisions made today will affect generations to come," said Quayle Hodek, CEO of Renewable Choice Energy. "By purchasing American Wind for their offices, their company is ensuring a brighter, cleaner future for us all.”

To learn more about Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), click here.

For more information about wind power, click here.

HOK is a global architectural firm that specializes in planning, design and delivery solutions for buildings and communities. Through its collaborative network of 24 offices worldwide, the firm serves diverse clients within the corporate, commercial, public and institutional markets. HOK is committed to developing resources and expertise to help lead the world toward sustainable communities and building environments. Founded in 1955, the firm’s expertise includes architecture, engineering, interiors, planning, lighting, graphics, facilities planning and assessment, and construction services.