By JENNY DERRINGER
derringer@crescent-news.com
ARCHBOLD -- The flatlands of northwest Ohio may not be overly scenic but the geography may work to the advantage of at least three area schools.
Those open plains could be beneficial in the future for Archbold and Pettisville local schools and Northwest State Community College (NSCC). On Tuesday, an anemometer was erected by Wind Energy Services just west of Archbold High School following a program at the school that afternoon.
This was made possible through a $250,000 grant from Green Energy Ohio's (GEO) anemometer loan program that includes using the location as a wind study site. Archbold and Pettisville schools were awarded the grant, in cooperation with NSCC.
The tower stands 165 feet tall and will take wind readings at three levels on the pole. The goal, according to Archbold superintendent Dave Deskins, is to cut energy costs by using renewable energy.
After a yearlong study, the hope is to ultimately install wind-powered turbines that will generate electricity for the schools.
"Teamwork -- it's a great way to describe this exciting opportunity for us," said Deskins. He noted that NSCC was involved based on the project's educational benefits. Pettisville officials are interested in "pursuing alternative energy as part of an upcoming new Ohio School Facilities Commission construction project.
"Archbold schools are looking to retro-fit an existing structure with alternative renewable energy," added Deskins, "and all three schools are deeply interested in the educational benefits for our area students."
"The project was met with enthusiasm," stated Pettisville superintendent Dr. Stephen Switzer. "It's been a nice effort, a team effort. We've received a lot of support."
NSCC president Dr. Tom Stuckey added that a completed wind study on his campus from atop the water tower showed that there was a wind speed average of 11.6 miles per hour. Stuckey noted that this project will make history for northwest Ohio.
"We share a past," said Stuckey, in reference to the neighboring school districts, "and together will create a future."