The Public Service Commission (PSC) of Wisconsin has approved Wisconsin Electric Power Co.'s (WEPCO) request to construct a new wind facility in Columbia County. The project is expected to produce up to 207 MW at a cost between $335 million and $435 million.
In 2008, WEPCO filed an application with the PSC for permission to build the Glacier Hills Wind Park in the towns of Randolph and Scott to help meet its renewable portfolio standard requirements. Wisconsin law requires the state to produce 10% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2015. Glacier Hill will utilize 90 turbines, with a generating capacity between 1.5 MW and 2.3 MW.
The PSC solicited comments from the public in May 2009 and held hearings on the project in November. The testimony provided at the hearings and comments submitted by the public were part of the record the PSC reviewed as it considered all the aspects of the application.
Construction on the Glacier Hills Wind Park is expected to begin in the second quarter of this year, with projected completion slated for late 2011.
SOURCE: The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
