Calgary, Alberta-based TransAlta Corp. has been awarded a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) to provide an additional 54 MW of wind power to New Brunswick Power Distribution and Customer Service Corp.
Under the agreement, TransAlta will expand its existing 96 MW Kent Hills wind facility, which began commercial operation in December 2008. While terms of the agreement are confidential, the capital cost of the project is estimated to be $100 million. The project is subject to regulatory and environmental approvals.
The 18-turbine expansion will be located just south of the current Kent Hills wind facility and will use V90-3 MW Vestas wind turbines.
TransAlta expects construction to commence early this year and the facility to be in service by the end of the year. Once complete, the facility is expected to provide 160,000 MWh per year.
TransAlta will work with local firms for the construction and ongoing operation of the Kent Hills wind farm, providing long-term economic benefits to the region.
Natural Forces Technologies Inc. (NFT) is TransAlta's co-developer in the Kent Hills expansion project. Upon completion of the expansion project, NFT will have the option to purchase a 17% interest in the new operating facility. In 2009, NFT purchased a 17% interest in TransAlta's existing Kent Hills wind farm.
SOURCE: TransAlta Corp.
