DeKALB | With ComEd set to raise its prices for the first time in 10 years, NIU is spending more time researching alternative ways to provide power.

“We’ve explored a lot of different options, such as photovoltaics, wind generators and other techniques,” said Mike Saari, associate director of building maintenance.

The use of photovoltaic solar cells, which convert sunlight to energy, is in the primary stages at NIU, Saari said. In order for these cells to be effective, a single cell would need to be arranged into a larger block of cells. This block would be mounted on a specific location to absorb the most sunlight. Photovoltaic technology has already been used in roof shingles to power homes, according to the National Center for Photovoltaics.

Another option being considered is to buy electricity from the wind farm located in Paw Paw just west of I-39. Electricity from the wind farm would be sent through a series of long-distance power lines to NIU.

According to ComEd ­— who buys power from other sources — the rising cost of electricity was the reason for the price increase. An auction to determine the new rates will be held today. Those new rates will not go into effect until Jan. 1, 2007.

Bob Albanese, associate vice president of finance and facilities/operations, said while NIU has not seen a recent price increase, steps to conserve energy have been taken during the last four years, including the installation of energy-conserving lights in the residence halls and academic buildings.

When the price has been set, NIU will be able to negotiate its own price for the upcoming year, Saari said. He said he is not concerned that the price increase will have a negative impact on NIU.

“We’ve been fairly successful at stabilizing the budget and ComEd is only a fraction of the [energy] bill we have to pay,” he said.

Matt Moore is a campus reporter for the Northern Star.