Last year, for example, Moab became Utah Power's first Blue Sky Community by persuading 1.5 percent of area electricity users to sign up for a renewable-energy program, which requires customers to pay a surcharge when they buy wind-generated electricity.

And just this week, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) named the Moab area -- Moab, Spanish Valley, Castle Valley, and Pack Creek -- the nation's first Green Power Community in the agency's Green Power Partnership program.

The honor goes to Moab because, according to Mayor Dave Sakrison, about 3.2 percent of local electricity consumed is now wind generated.

"It's exceeded all my expectations for sure," Sakrison said. "I thought we were going to have a tough time getting 3 percent."

The effort will bolster Moab's standing among conservation- minded visitors, said Sara Wright, director of Utah Clean Energy, a group that promotes renewable energy.

"To have a small community reach this participation level is amazing," she said. "You're protecting your blue skies and the natural beauty you have here."

The Green Power Community campaign drew support from a diverse cross-section of Grand County, said Andy Nettell, owner of Arches Book Company, and a strong supporter of the push for EPA status.

"It's been hugely gratifying to see people from all corners of the county support this," he said.

EPA officials say the area is setting the standard for others to follow.

"The Moab community is pioneering a collaborative effort between businesses and residents to increase the area's green power usage," said Matt Clouse, director of the EPA's Green Power Partnership.

lchurch@citlink.net

A number of firsts

Moab also boasts a list of business "firsts" for using renewable energy:

* KZMU community radio is the first public radio station to be 100 percent wind-powered.

* The Times-Independent is the first newspaper to be 100 percent wind-powered.

* The Moab Folk Music Festival is the first of its kind to use only electricity generated by wind.