GE has received a $1.4 billion contract from independent power producer Caithness Energy to supply wind turbines and provide services for an 845 MW wind project, to be located in Oregon. The wind farm, called Shepherds Flat, has received the majority of the necessary government permits to operate and is ready to be built.
The Shepherds Flat wind farm is the first in North America to deploy GE's 2.5xl wind turbine, which has been proven in Europe and Asia.
‘The 2.5 MW wind turbine is the latest evolution of GE's wind turbine technology and provides customers with greater efficiency, reliability and grid connection capabilities,’ says Steve Bolze, president and CEO of GE Power & Water.
Caithness Energy estimates that the $2 billion project will add $16 million annually of direct economic benefits in Oregon, and will employ 400 workers during construction and 35 during operation. Construction is expected to begin in 2010 and should be completed in 2012. GE Energy Financial Services is investing in the project.
In addition to supplying the wind turbines, GE will provide 10 years of operational and maintenance services to the project. The 2.5xl wind turbines for the Shepherds Flat wind farm will be assembled at GE's site in Pensacola, Fla.
Under three 20-year power purchase agreements, the Shepherds Flat wind farm will supply renewable energy to Southern California Edison, an Edison International company.
SOURCE: GE Power & Water
