Newton, Mass.-based UPC Wind has received final approval from the Maine Land Use Regulation Commission (LURC) on its 57 MW Stetson Wind Project in Washington County, Maine. The unanimous approval of the final project plans was given during a commission meeting held in Augusta, Maine, and follows LURC's November 2007 vote in favor of UPC Wind's rezoning petition.
‘We are pleased that [LURC] has recognized the importance of developing alternative energy sources such as the Stetson Wind Project, which is poised to become the region's biggest source of wind energy,’ says Paul Gaynor, president and CEO of UPC Wind.
According to UPC Wind, the Stetson Wind Project has received support from environmental groups, such as Maine Audubon, Natural Resource Council, Appalachian Mountain Club and Conservation Law Foundation. In addition, the project has garnered regional endorsements from local officials and groups, including the Washington County Commissioners and the Sunrise County Economic Council.
‘We appreciate LURC's thoughtful review of this project, and we are grateful for the support we have received throughout this process from many leading organizations, state officials and members of the community,’ says Matt Kearns, UPC Wind's project manager. ‘Building on this major milestone, UPC Wind will now proceed with construction activities within the LURC-permitted area on Stetson Mountain.’
The Stetson Wind Project will consist of the construction and operation of 38 GE 1.5 MW wind turbines.
