Nov 25 2010
Macpherson Energy announced that its entities have approved the acquisition of 50% stake in the Mt. Poso Cogeneration plant in Kern County. On acquisition, the company will co-lead the conversion of the plant into a renewable energy center with a total capacity of 44 MW of power. The plant will be completely operated on wood waste and other biomass fuels.
Macpherson Energy, a managing partner in many oil fields in the Kern County, has purchased the plant, along with the subsidiaries of DTE Energy Services. Mt. Poso has entered into a 15-year agreement with Pacific Gas and Electric for the sale of biomass energy. Moreover, this deal has been approved by the California Public Utilities Commission.
The biomass plant will be operated by DTE Energy Services, which will also co-lead the conversion of the plant. However, Macpherson Energy will manage the plant, after it becomes the 50% owner.
The biomass conversion project will create 90 new jobs in construction, and 10 full time jobs at the plant. The project is also expected to create more jobs in wood supply and other related services. The plant will use the wood waste from agricultural sources, tree trimmings, and construction waste.