Leeward Renewable Energy LLC has successfully completed construction of its two Aragonne projects, which included repowering of its existing Aragonne Wind project (Aragonne Repower) and the construction of the new Aragonne Mesa Wind project.
Located in Guadalupe County, N.M., the projects will provide 200 MW of wind power generation over a 20-year period to Arizona Public Service Company (APS) under a previously announced agreement, with the capacity to generate up to 235 MW.
“Adding more renewable energy to our resource mix is integral to APS’s Clean Energy Commitment,” says Justin Joiner, APS’ vice president of resource management. “We are striving to serve customers with 100% clean and carbon-free power by 2050 and partnerships like this to strengthen our already diverse portfolio are key to achieving that goal and securing a brighter future for Arizona.”
Collectively, the new projects comprised 86 advanced GE wind turbines capable of generating more than three times the amount of power produced by the legacy Aragonne Wind project while using 60% less land. Additionally, as part of Leeward’s commitment to environmental stewardship and to further enhance sustainability, 100% of the blades from the decommissioned Aragonne Wind turbines were recycled or reused, as were a majority of the other materials removed from service. Construction financing and tax equity commitments secured for the projects were provided by Wells Fargo and Santander.
“This announcement is an important milestone for Leeward as it showcases our ability to deliver high value renewable energy facilities through innovation, long-term trusted relationships and by positively impacting the communities we serve,” comments Andrew Flanagan, chief development officer at Leeward. “We are pleased to be extending our long-standing partnership with APS and the trusted relationships we have built with Guadalupe County community for another 20 years.”
