Dec 14 2009
GE has received a $1.4 billion contract to supply wind turbines from an independent power producer, Caithness Energy, for a new 845 MW wind farm project that is to be constructed at Oregon. GE also has to provide services for the wind power project as per the contract terms.
The new wind project named Shepherds Flat has completed all the formalities and has received most of the permits necessary to operate and is ready for construction. When the project is completed, it will be the largest wind farm in operation in the world.
Les Gelber, a partner at Caithness Energy, said that the Shepherds Flat wind farm demonstrates the company’s commitment to utilize wind power to generate clean energy from sustainable sources, and at the same reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He added that this project will help in meeting the west coast’s increasing clean energy demand.
The Shepherds Flat project is located near the town of Arlington and extends to 30 square miles . This order represents the single largest international order for GE’s 2.5xl wind turbines. This model of wind turbines has been proven in Asia and Europe. The project will have 338 wind turbines, which will be installed in the years 2011 and 2012.
Steve Bolze, President and CEO of GE Power & Water, said that this project demonstrates the company’s capabilities to provide integrated solutions in the renewable and clean energy sector. He added that the 2.5-MW wind turbines incorporate the latest wind turbine technology and enable customers to achieve more efficiency and greater grid connection capabilities.
The construction of the project is slated to begin in 2010 and scheduled to be completed in 2012. During construction, this project will provide employment to 400 workers and during operation, to 35 workers. Oregon State will also benefit economically to the tune of $16 million annually through an investment of $2 billion.
GE Energy Financial Services is investing in this project. GE will be providing maintenance and operational services for a period of ten years to the project.