Pattern Energy Group LP has announced that both the National Association of Environmental Professionals (NAEP) and the California Association of Environmental Professionals have granted the Ocotillo Wind project with awards for outstanding environmental analysis and documentation.
The Ocotillo Wind project, a 265 MW wind farm in California's Imperial Valley, has 94 Siemens turbines that became operational in January. The remaining 18 turbines will be installed and operational by mid-year. Ocotillo Wind is the first renewable energy project to transmit power over the Sunrise Powerlink transmission line, which connects San Diego with the Imperial Valley.
‘The Ocotillo Wind project's environmental review analysis received our highest honor,’ says Paul Looney, president of the NAEP. ‘The environmental analysis for the Ocotillo project was rigorous and included an extensive public outreach program and complex multi-agency approval process. The analysis also featured innovative analytical techniques, including a state-of-the-art radar system linked to video recorders to monitor avian and big horn sheep activity.’
‘We are honored by these awards, which underscore our commitment to environmental excellence,’ adds Mike Garland, CEO of Pattern Energy. ‘We are proud to implement the most advanced technologies available to avoid impacts on environmental resources. We are pleased with the current operation of the project, which is providing clean energy to Southern California, and we look forward to continuing the implementation of the project's environmental commitments and community benefits program.’
