Honda Transmission Mfg. of America Inc. has finalized installation and will begin operation of two power-producing wind turbines next week at its plant in Russells Point, Ohio, through an agreement with a subsidiary of ConEdison Solutions.
Honda Transmission says studies it commissioned indicate that wind power is a cost-effective source of electricity for the plant and that the project will not adversely impact local wildlife or the environment. The two wind turbines, with blades approximately 160 feet long, will supply about 10% of the plant's power needs. Based on their location and actual wind speeds, combined output from the two wind turbines is estimated at 10,000 MWH per year, the company adds.
ConEdison Solutions will own and operate the turbines through its subsidiary, RP Wind LLC. The company is working in collaboration with Juhl Energy of Pipestone, Minn., which served as the primary developer of the project.
Through agreements with Honda Transmission, ConEdison Solutions will generate electricity for the plant and be responsible for an interconnect agreement with the Logan County Electric Cooperative and an additional agreement with Buckeye Power Inc., an Ohio electric cooperative.
Globally, Honda says it has established voluntary goals to reduce the environmental impact of its products and manufacturing operations by 2020. This includes a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions from Honda products and significant CO2 reductions from the company's plants and other operations, compared with year 2000 levels.
