DENVER -- Wind turbines will be installed at six Colorado rural schools as part of a state-federal program aimed at generating some of the schools' electricity and teaching the community about wind power.

Gov. Bill Ritter's energy office is working with the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Colorado State University to install a 1.8 kilowatt turbine at each of the schools.

The turbines will generate a small share of the school’s electricity as well as act as an educational resource for teachers, students and local residents.

“These wind turbine projects represent another important way all regions of Colorado are participating in our New Energy Economy,” Gov. Ritter said. “Educating today’s young people about the benefits and mechanics of renewable energy systems prepares them for a wealth of future opportunities and demonstrates the crucial role our rural communities can play in mapping out a new energy future for Colorado and the country.”

Most of the turbines should be installed this summer and will cost $12,000 to $15,000 each. The Governor's Energy Office, NREL and the school district will cover the costs.

The turbines will be installed at Stratton High School, Flagler High School, Wellington Middle School, Kit Carson Junior/Senior High School, Walsh High School and Burlington High School.

“It’s a great fit for our area in that wind is something we deal with all of our lives around here; it’s great to see it finally put to some productive use,” said Kyle Hebberd, superintendent of Walsh School District RE-1. “It’ll increase the awareness around here about wind power. We see it as a stepping stone to a larger project that might make some difference financially for the school.”

The turbines will generate about 300 kilowatt-hours per month -- roughly equivalent to the amount of electricity used by a small home in a month.