Independent renewable energy company RES has begun construction of Southern Power’s 200 MW Reading Wind Facility in Kansas.
Located in Osage and Lyon counties, the project will generate roughly 760,000 MWh of clean energy per year.
Southern Power, which acquired the project from RES, will operate and maintain the facility upon completion, scheduled for the second quarter of 2020. The wind farm will consist of 62 Siemens Gamesa turbines, and the energy output will be sold to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. under a 12-year power purchase agreement.
RES notes that the Reading Wind project will generate significant benefits to the local community, including creating approximately 125 full-time jobs during peak construction and up to eight permanent jobs once operational. During construction and operation, both Osage and Lyons counties will benefit from increased local spending on goods and services.
“This project will mark RES’ first project in our joint development agreement with Southern Power, which has been a tremendous partner in bringing renewable energy to communities across the country,” says Rick Ortiz, RES’ vice president of wind construction. “We are excited to bring significant benefits to the local communities of Osage and Lyon counties.”
