NorthWestern Energy has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to purchase a 25 MW wind project in central Montana to be developed by Compass Wind.
The project, which was submitted to NorthWestern in response to a 2009 community renewable resource solicitation, is consistent with recent Montana legislation that provides for the reintegration of the utility. The Spion Kop wind project is intended to be placed into the Montana utility's rate base both with the energy and associated renewable energy credits used to meet future renewable portfolio standards obligations.
The development timeline anticipates the execution of a definitive agreement in the first quarter of 2011, followed by the submission of an application for pre-approval by the Montana Public Service Commission and an anticipated decision early in 2012. Construction would commence upon a favorable ruling, with commercial operation anticipated by the end of 2012.
SOURCE: NorthWestern Energy
