Lower bills may not be blowing in the wind
There is no guarantee that putting a turbine on your roof will produce enough electricity to make worthwhile savings, writes Terry Slavin
Sunday June 25, 2006
The Observer
Ever since David Cameron announced he was planning to put a wind turbine on his new house in London, demand for the gadgets has soared. But that is as nothing compared with the interest that will be whipped up next week when the government announces it intends to scrap the need for planning permission for domestic energy generators, including solar panels and wind turbines.
The government will propose that homeowners can install mini wind turbines without applying for planning permission. Yvette Cooper, the planning minister, will tell MPs that, subject to a consultation, the government intends to make it much easier for people to use their homes as generators by cutting red tape that has so far acted as a brake on renewable energy.
This move, combined with B&Q's aim to sell rooftop wind turbines at its 'Warehouse' stores for about £1,600, including installation, and with 30 per cent of the cost offset by a government grant, means you won't need to be a member of Cameron's Notting Hill set to afford one.
But renewable energy experts, including government-funded agencies, fear that roof-mounted turbines could be another double-glazing overselling debacle in the making. They are concerned that the unregulated technology has not been adequately tested and that devices claimed by some manufacturers to produce up to a third of the average family's electricity needs could produce a fraction of that. Some also fear the turbines could cause structural damage.
'There's a lack of independent, verifiable evidence to support the performance claims of turbines attached to buildings,' says Kirk Archibald of the Energy Saving Trust (EST). 'There's been a lot of hype and a lot of interest, but you could have a situation where they get rolled out and don't work.'
One consultant who sits on the government's renewables advisory board and has undertaken extensive testing of some of the turbines says: 'We found the performance of them is on average between 10 and 25 per cent of what the manufacturers are claiming.'
Unlike solar panels, which were thoroughly tested with government field trials before their introduction, rooftop wind turbines have seen very little such testing, says Archibald. They were assumed to perform like larger wind turbines on poles sited in exposed areas, but air turbulence caused by neighbouring buildings and obstructions such as trees can affect performance dramatically.
Windsave, which makes the turbine that will be sold by B&Q and will be selling directly via the internet from August, says its 1.75 metre turbine produces 1,000-2,000 kilowatt hours of electricity a year. Renewable Devices says its Swift 2 metre turbine produces between 2,000 and 3,000 kwH of energy a year, and could save the householder up to £300 a year, including the value of green energy generation certificates.
But Archibald says that low wind speeds in urban areas mean that most installations will never come near that. 'In better locations we'd expect wind speeds of six metres per second, but in urban areas, with lots of other buildings around, you're probably looking at four [metres per second], and that will affect performance considerably.'
Nick Martin of the Hockerton Housing Project, a sustainable development in Nottinghamshire, is a construction expert who has monitored performance of much larger, pole-mounted turbines and investigated the claims of the rooftop turbine makers. He says that Swift and Windsave's performance claims 'defy the law of physics' and that they will produce much nearer to 10 per cent of the average household's energy needs.
It is an awkward situation for the EST, which administers a new Department of Trade and Industry programme to fund 30 per cent of the cost of small-scale renewables. The Swift and Windsave turbines were accredited under a previous government scheme, Clear Skies, which did not require them to meet performance criteria, Archibald says. Clear Skies rolled over into a new scheme, the Low Carbon Building Programme, in April, meaning that the two turbines still qualify for grants - although the government has not yet announced the criteria that products will need to meet.
Scottish and Southern Energy has a stake in Renewable Devices and is looking to offer the Swift turbine to another 400-500 customers this year. Business manager Nigel Ellis stands by the 2,000-3000 kwH performance claim, which he says is based on wind speeds of between 4.4 and five metres a second, but agrees that 'output does vary' and that obstructions, such as nearby trees or buildings, will eat into performance.
David Gordon, chief executive of Windsave, also defends the performance claims. He says that even at four metres a second, the turbine will produce more than 500 kwH a year, taking £60 off the average bill. Consumers will also be eligible to get a green energy certificate worth £60 from the government, taking the annual value of the electricity up to £120: 'And that has to be worth having.'
Shoppers will not just be able to pop a wind turbine in their trolley and head for the tills at B&Q, Gordon pointed out. They will be sold to order, and the company's installers will put them up only if windspeeds are at least 3.5 metres a second. This will be judged using data from the DTI, which has windspeeds for every postcode in Britain.
But the Hockerton Housing Project's Martin, says the DTI windspeed data is misleading: 'The DTI computer generator looks at topography but doesn't take into account fences, trees and buildings, which affect windspeeds.' He also worries about structural damage to houses if they are not installed properly: 'If you bolt it to the end of the gable of a Victorian house made with lime mortar, it's going to come apart.'
The consultant on the government's renewables advisory committee also noted vibration problems with some turbines that were 'more than the building [they were being tested on] could take'.
Windsave's sales literature warns that its wind turbines are not suitable for some roof types, including lime mortar, and says every building will be tested by its installers for suitability. Neither are all house types suitable for the Swift turbine, and Scottish and Southern will require a full structural survey by its engineers before a rooftop device is installed. Ellis says the availability of trained installers is limiting how fast it can go in rolling out the devices.
Meanwhile, Cameron's wind turbine of choice, the 1.1-metre diameter Stealthgen by Eclectic Energy, is too small for grant funding under the previous Clear Skies regime, which only funded turbines bigger than 1.7 metres. The Stealthgen costs about £3,000, including installation, but Peter Anderson, managing director of Eclectic, says he hopes it will be accredited for a grant under the new scheme. 'Of the three companies, ours is the smallest turbine and the most appropriate size for domestic houses,' he says, adding that it can be put on any building and produce about 660 kwH a year.
But he fears that the entire industry could be tarred if the claims of makers of larger wind turbines are not borne out: 'This is a viable technology, but we're concerned about the varying claims. There's a strong desire on everybody's part to develop UK standards for consumers and for the industry to be on a level playing field so that it develops professionally and consumers are protected.'
Find out more
So what should you do if you want a rooftop wind turbine? You might be better off waiting until the situation regarding planning permission is clear, and the accreditation scheme for the Low Carbon Building Programme is in place, but if you want to start the process rolling now:
· Call your local council to find out how difficult - and expensive - it might be to get planning permission. If you live in a conservation area, it's unlikely you'll get it, but there are exceptions. David Cameron's Notting Hill house is in a conservation area, but Alex Michaelis, who designed the renovations to Cameron's house, hopes he will be given permission. His company has previously received planning permission for Stealthgen turbines in another conservation area in Hammersmith and Fulham.
· RWE Npower has a microgeneration scheme that helps customers to apply for planning permission and grants. But of 250 customers on the scheme, only half received planning permission, with many local authorities telling them not to bother to apply. Chris Tomlinson, of the British Wind Energy Association, warns that the cost of getting planning permission could be from £600 to £3,500. ·
· Check the BWEA small wind website, www.bwea.com/small/index.html. This has links to the Low Carbon Building Programme for grant information and to the DTI to calculate wind speeds in your area. The Energy Saving Trust helpline is 0845 727 7200, or visit www.est.org.uk/myhome/ for information about grants, manufacturers and installers.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Wind-Powered Electrolysis of Coal Bed Methane Water for Hydrogen Production
Wind-Powered Electrolysis of Coal Bed Methane Water for Hydrogen Production
15 June 2006
A Wyoming company has received a National Science Foundation Phase 1 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant to determine the technical feasibility and economic viability of the electrolytic production of hydrogen from coal-bed methane (CBM) water using power generated from wind turbines.
In Ladd Energy’s concept, the electrolysis units would only operate when the wind blows. The hydrogen could be used industrially (in oil refining, for example), used in a stationary fuel cell to generate power, or eventually provided for vehicles.
Most CBM operators are desperate to get rid of their water. We are more than happy to take it and put it to good use, not only improving environmental quality but also making a profit at the same time.
—Ted Ladd
The extraction of the methane (natural gas) contained in coal seams (Coal Bed Methane) has boomed recently, and now accounts for approximately 7.5% of the total natural gas production in the US.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the Rocky Mountain Region has extensive coal deposits bearing an estimated 30-58 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of recoverable CBM. The Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (2002) estimates 31.8 TCF of recoverable CBM in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming alone.
In the late 1980s there were fewer than 20 CBM wells in Wyoming; today there are more than 13,600 producing and shut in CBM wells across the state, according to the Wyoming State Geological Survey. The most active development is currently in the Powder River Coal Field.
Schematic diagram of a CBM well. Click to enlarge. Source: Wyoming State Engineers Office.
To extract CBM, operators drill wells into the seam and pump out water to reduce the water pressure holding gas in the seam. The CBM readily separates as pressure decreases, allowing it to be piped out of the well separately from the water. Water moving from the coal seam to the well bore encourages gas migration toward the well.
The amount of water produced is high, although it varies from deposit to deposit. The Power River wells have one of the higher water-gas ratios, according to the USGS, at an average 2.75 barrels per thousand cubic feet (MCF) of gas. On average, a Power River CBM well produces about 400 barrels (16,800 gallons) of water per day per well.
Over time, the water ratio decreases and gas production increases as the beds are dewatered.
The product water must be disposed of; it is not re-injected into the field as in some oil production. The application of the water is determined in part by its composition—the type and amount of total dissolved solids (TDS). But CBM product water generally has a moderately high salinity hazard and often a very high sodium hazard based on standards used for irrigation suitability.
There are currently four primary approaches to dealing with CBM product water, according to Montana State University:
Discharge into a stream channel. Direct stream discharge is no longer permitted on new wells, but existing operations were grandfathered and are still discharging directly into streams.
Impounded in holding ponds. Most impoundments are not lined and do discharge to the subsurface. Some percentage of seepage flow from impoundments is likely to reach stream channels via subsurface flow.
Irrigation.
Other uses, such as dust control.
Ladd’s concept would use this product water, alleviating some of the disposal problem. He speculates that the salts in the water might be beneficial to the electrolytic process.
15 June 2006
A Wyoming company has received a National Science Foundation Phase 1 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant to determine the technical feasibility and economic viability of the electrolytic production of hydrogen from coal-bed methane (CBM) water using power generated from wind turbines.
In Ladd Energy’s concept, the electrolysis units would only operate when the wind blows. The hydrogen could be used industrially (in oil refining, for example), used in a stationary fuel cell to generate power, or eventually provided for vehicles.
Most CBM operators are desperate to get rid of their water. We are more than happy to take it and put it to good use, not only improving environmental quality but also making a profit at the same time.
—Ted Ladd
The extraction of the methane (natural gas) contained in coal seams (Coal Bed Methane) has boomed recently, and now accounts for approximately 7.5% of the total natural gas production in the US.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the Rocky Mountain Region has extensive coal deposits bearing an estimated 30-58 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of recoverable CBM. The Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (2002) estimates 31.8 TCF of recoverable CBM in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming alone.
In the late 1980s there were fewer than 20 CBM wells in Wyoming; today there are more than 13,600 producing and shut in CBM wells across the state, according to the Wyoming State Geological Survey. The most active development is currently in the Powder River Coal Field.
Schematic diagram of a CBM well. Click to enlarge. Source: Wyoming State Engineers Office.
To extract CBM, operators drill wells into the seam and pump out water to reduce the water pressure holding gas in the seam. The CBM readily separates as pressure decreases, allowing it to be piped out of the well separately from the water. Water moving from the coal seam to the well bore encourages gas migration toward the well.
The amount of water produced is high, although it varies from deposit to deposit. The Power River wells have one of the higher water-gas ratios, according to the USGS, at an average 2.75 barrels per thousand cubic feet (MCF) of gas. On average, a Power River CBM well produces about 400 barrels (16,800 gallons) of water per day per well.
Over time, the water ratio decreases and gas production increases as the beds are dewatered.
The product water must be disposed of; it is not re-injected into the field as in some oil production. The application of the water is determined in part by its composition—the type and amount of total dissolved solids (TDS). But CBM product water generally has a moderately high salinity hazard and often a very high sodium hazard based on standards used for irrigation suitability.
There are currently four primary approaches to dealing with CBM product water, according to Montana State University:
Discharge into a stream channel. Direct stream discharge is no longer permitted on new wells, but existing operations were grandfathered and are still discharging directly into streams.
Impounded in holding ponds. Most impoundments are not lined and do discharge to the subsurface. Some percentage of seepage flow from impoundments is likely to reach stream channels via subsurface flow.
Irrigation.
Other uses, such as dust control.
Ladd’s concept would use this product water, alleviating some of the disposal problem. He speculates that the salts in the water might be beneficial to the electrolytic process.
The largest wind farm in Australia
$400m wind farm agreements finalised
The largest wind farm in Australia will be located in South Australia's south-east as agreements are finalised for the construction of stage two of the Lake Bonney wind farm.
Fifty-three turbines will be built next to the existing wind farm at Lake Bonney, near Millicent, at a cost of $400 million.
A statement from project owners, Babcock and Brown Wind Partners, to the Australian Stock Exchange says construction will begin immediately.
The new turbines will be built by a Danish company and will sit on 80-metre high towers.
They are expected to be fully operational by the middle of 2008 and will generate 159 megawatts of power.
The company says the wind farm will be one of the largest in the world.
The announcement comes almost two weeks after Roaring 40s put its project near Saddleworth in the Clare Valley on hold claiming a lack of Federal Government support.
The largest wind farm in Australia will be located in South Australia's south-east as agreements are finalised for the construction of stage two of the Lake Bonney wind farm.
Fifty-three turbines will be built next to the existing wind farm at Lake Bonney, near Millicent, at a cost of $400 million.
A statement from project owners, Babcock and Brown Wind Partners, to the Australian Stock Exchange says construction will begin immediately.
The new turbines will be built by a Danish company and will sit on 80-metre high towers.
They are expected to be fully operational by the middle of 2008 and will generate 159 megawatts of power.
The company says the wind farm will be one of the largest in the world.
The announcement comes almost two weeks after Roaring 40s put its project near Saddleworth in the Clare Valley on hold claiming a lack of Federal Government support.
Great Lakes Offshore Wind Energy Project Could Surpass 700 MW
Great Lakes Offshore Wind Energy Project Could Surpass 700 MW
by Jesse Broehl, Editor, RenewableEnergyAccess.com
June 5, 2006
Prince Edward County, Ontario [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] A new challenger has thrown its hat in the ring to be the first offshore wind project in North America. If the plan goes through, it could also be the largest single wind project on the continent.
"Recently instituted changes have created a regulatory climate for the development of renewable energy in Ontario that is the best it has ever been. This has provided Trillium Power with the confidence to move this unique project forward at this time. In return, the Trillium Power Wind 1 site will put Ontario, and Canada, on the world wind map in a very major way."
-- John Kourtoff, Trillium Power, president and CEO Last week, Toronto, Canada-based Trillium Power Energy Corporation announced the plan. The site, to be known as Trillium Power Wind 1, will consist of up to 142 of the latest multi-megawatt wind turbines and will have a total installed capacity of up to 710 MW -- enough clean, renewable power to satisfy the electricity needs of more than 200,000 homes.
News of the project comes amidst an increasingly caustic atmosphere in the U.S. where offshore wind has been stymied by local opposition and faced repeated legislative attacks from U.S. lawmakers. This has particularly been the case with the 420 MW Cape Wind project proposed off the coast of Massachusetts. Cape Wind was the first proposal for an offshore wind farm in North American but new proposals such as Trillium's bid may ultimately see construction first.
"The project, which is in very shallow waters 15 kilometers offshore from Prince Edward County, is unique for Ontario in that other wind power developments being planned or under construction are on hilltop or shoreline locations," said John Kourtoff, President and CEO of Trillium Power. "However, going offshore takes advantage of excellent wind conditions while considerably reducing the potential impact of the environmental footprint."
Kourtoff said the project has all of the attributes necessary for successful development: an excellent wind resource measured over 36 years, sufficient transmission, positive environmental qualities, an experienced engineering and development team, and solid financing and support.
Kourtoff also explained how a number of factors in Ontario have made this project possible. This includes the policy of the present provincial government that encourages the development of renewable energy in Ontario by entering into long purchase power agreements (PPA) and the policy of the present government to allow the registration of Crown Land for the development of wind generation, which up until 2004 was not possible.
The development of the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) has also been helpful through its strategic and long-term planning. Kourtoff said that with the advent of the OPA, once a long-term plan is decided, there is an entity able to enter into long-term PPAs with private sector generators.
"Recently instituted changes have created a regulatory climate for the development of renewable energy in Ontario that is the best it has ever been," said Kourtoff. "This has provided Trillium Power with the confidence to move this unique project forward at this time. In return, the Trillium Power Wind 1 site will put Ontario, and Canada, on the world wind map in a very major way."
The company expects the development of the Trillium Power Wind 1 site to create significant economic spin-offs in manufacturing, construction and services, both locally and throughout Ontario. In addition, its development will assist Ontario in improving its air quality while at the same time helping Canada meet its Kyoto reduction targets for greenhouse gases, treaty obligations for the reduction of mercury and other hazardous emissions as well as reducing smog-causing pollutants such as nitrous oxides and sulphur dioxides.
Trillium Power Energy Corporation, a privately owned company headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, is focused on the development of unique renewable and alternative energy solutions. The Trillium Power management team has developed and operated waterpower facilities in Ontario since the 1980s and has been involved in other major installations around the world.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For further Information
Trillium Power Energy Corporation
by Jesse Broehl, Editor, RenewableEnergyAccess.com
June 5, 2006
Prince Edward County, Ontario [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] A new challenger has thrown its hat in the ring to be the first offshore wind project in North America. If the plan goes through, it could also be the largest single wind project on the continent.
"Recently instituted changes have created a regulatory climate for the development of renewable energy in Ontario that is the best it has ever been. This has provided Trillium Power with the confidence to move this unique project forward at this time. In return, the Trillium Power Wind 1 site will put Ontario, and Canada, on the world wind map in a very major way."
-- John Kourtoff, Trillium Power, president and CEO Last week, Toronto, Canada-based Trillium Power Energy Corporation announced the plan. The site, to be known as Trillium Power Wind 1, will consist of up to 142 of the latest multi-megawatt wind turbines and will have a total installed capacity of up to 710 MW -- enough clean, renewable power to satisfy the electricity needs of more than 200,000 homes.
News of the project comes amidst an increasingly caustic atmosphere in the U.S. where offshore wind has been stymied by local opposition and faced repeated legislative attacks from U.S. lawmakers. This has particularly been the case with the 420 MW Cape Wind project proposed off the coast of Massachusetts. Cape Wind was the first proposal for an offshore wind farm in North American but new proposals such as Trillium's bid may ultimately see construction first.
"The project, which is in very shallow waters 15 kilometers offshore from Prince Edward County, is unique for Ontario in that other wind power developments being planned or under construction are on hilltop or shoreline locations," said John Kourtoff, President and CEO of Trillium Power. "However, going offshore takes advantage of excellent wind conditions while considerably reducing the potential impact of the environmental footprint."
Kourtoff said the project has all of the attributes necessary for successful development: an excellent wind resource measured over 36 years, sufficient transmission, positive environmental qualities, an experienced engineering and development team, and solid financing and support.
Kourtoff also explained how a number of factors in Ontario have made this project possible. This includes the policy of the present provincial government that encourages the development of renewable energy in Ontario by entering into long purchase power agreements (PPA) and the policy of the present government to allow the registration of Crown Land for the development of wind generation, which up until 2004 was not possible.
The development of the Ontario Power Authority (OPA) has also been helpful through its strategic and long-term planning. Kourtoff said that with the advent of the OPA, once a long-term plan is decided, there is an entity able to enter into long-term PPAs with private sector generators.
"Recently instituted changes have created a regulatory climate for the development of renewable energy in Ontario that is the best it has ever been," said Kourtoff. "This has provided Trillium Power with the confidence to move this unique project forward at this time. In return, the Trillium Power Wind 1 site will put Ontario, and Canada, on the world wind map in a very major way."
The company expects the development of the Trillium Power Wind 1 site to create significant economic spin-offs in manufacturing, construction and services, both locally and throughout Ontario. In addition, its development will assist Ontario in improving its air quality while at the same time helping Canada meet its Kyoto reduction targets for greenhouse gases, treaty obligations for the reduction of mercury and other hazardous emissions as well as reducing smog-causing pollutants such as nitrous oxides and sulphur dioxides.
Trillium Power Energy Corporation, a privately owned company headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, is focused on the development of unique renewable and alternative energy solutions. The Trillium Power management team has developed and operated waterpower facilities in Ontario since the 1980s and has been involved in other major installations around the world.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For further Information
Trillium Power Energy Corporation
ENERGY DEPARTMENT, WIND INDUSTRY JOIN TO CREATE
ENERGY DEPARTMENT, WIND INDUSTRY JOIN TO CREATE
ACTION PLAN TO REALIZE NATIONAL VISION OF
20% ELECTRICITY FROM WIND
Kickoff Takes Place at WINDPOWER 2006 in Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – June 5, 2006 - The American Wind Energy Association, U.S. Department of Energy, and National Renewable Energy Laboratory today committed to develop an action plan focused on providing up to 20% of the nation’s electricity from clean, renewable wind energy, the potential of which was highlighted in the Advanced Energy Initiative released by President George W. Bush in February.
Today at the WINDPOWER 2006 Conference and Exhibition in Pittsburgh, experts in wind technology, energy policy, public outreach, utility operations, and project development gathered to begin the creation of the action plan. The process will solicit input from key stakeholders including environmental groups, utilities, policy planners, investors, educators, communities, and others, with the action plan being unveiled at the WINDPOWER 2007 Conference and Exhibition in Los Angeles, Calif., June 3-6, 2007.
“In his Advanced Energy Initiative, the President described his vision of changing the way we power our homes and businesses by increasing energy efficiency, alleviating price pressure on natural gas, lessening dependency on imported fuels, and fostering alternatives for power production, including wind energy,” said Andy Karsner, U.S. Department of Energy Assistant Secretary of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “I am pleased to join with AWEA and pledge the support of the U.S. Department of Energy for this critical effort which will accelerate the use of the Nation’s vast wind energy resources.”
“Wind is an abundant and free domestic energy resource,” said Randall Swisher, Executive Director of the American Wind Energy Association. “Coupled with modern technology, wind energy displaces the need for fossil generation and reduces U.S. dependence on imported energy.
“As we have seen in Europe and with growing popularity in other nations of the world, wind power is proven, and can play a substantial role in powering America’s energy future. Wind energy works—for our economy, environment, and energy security.”
Pittsburgh Declaration (pdf)
ACTION PLAN TO REALIZE NATIONAL VISION OF
20% ELECTRICITY FROM WIND
Kickoff Takes Place at WINDPOWER 2006 in Pittsburgh
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – June 5, 2006 - The American Wind Energy Association, U.S. Department of Energy, and National Renewable Energy Laboratory today committed to develop an action plan focused on providing up to 20% of the nation’s electricity from clean, renewable wind energy, the potential of which was highlighted in the Advanced Energy Initiative released by President George W. Bush in February.
Today at the WINDPOWER 2006 Conference and Exhibition in Pittsburgh, experts in wind technology, energy policy, public outreach, utility operations, and project development gathered to begin the creation of the action plan. The process will solicit input from key stakeholders including environmental groups, utilities, policy planners, investors, educators, communities, and others, with the action plan being unveiled at the WINDPOWER 2007 Conference and Exhibition in Los Angeles, Calif., June 3-6, 2007.
“In his Advanced Energy Initiative, the President described his vision of changing the way we power our homes and businesses by increasing energy efficiency, alleviating price pressure on natural gas, lessening dependency on imported fuels, and fostering alternatives for power production, including wind energy,” said Andy Karsner, U.S. Department of Energy Assistant Secretary of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “I am pleased to join with AWEA and pledge the support of the U.S. Department of Energy for this critical effort which will accelerate the use of the Nation’s vast wind energy resources.”
“Wind is an abundant and free domestic energy resource,” said Randall Swisher, Executive Director of the American Wind Energy Association. “Coupled with modern technology, wind energy displaces the need for fossil generation and reduces U.S. dependence on imported energy.
“As we have seen in Europe and with growing popularity in other nations of the world, wind power is proven, and can play a substantial role in powering America’s energy future. Wind energy works—for our economy, environment, and energy security.”
Pittsburgh Declaration (pdf)
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Talk swirls of Great Lakes offshore windmills
Tilting at turbines: Talk swirls of Great Lakes offshore windmills TODD RICHMOND
ALGOMA, Wis. (AP) - Little red lighthouse. Beach boardwalks. The blue-green waters of Lake Michigan stretching to the horizon. Just another pretty-as-a-postcard day on the shores of this sleepy town of 5,700 about a half-hour east of Green Bay.
But changes could be in store for Algoma and other towns and cities that line the Great Lakes. Energy experts are set to meet in Madison and Toledo, Ohio, next month to talk about the prospects of implanting giant electricity-generating windmills in the Great Lakes.
Advocates say offshore wind turbines would be a power generation jackpot. Opponents are cringing, fearing the windmills' impact on the lakes' aesthetics, tourism and fishing.
"I'll fight this every way I can," said Algoma alderman Ken Taylor, chairman of the city's marina committee. "The beautiful view we have would be destroyed ... how many (tourists and fishermen) are going to come here if we have these things off our coastline?"
Offshore turbines would be a risky undertaking for any utility. To generate a sizable amount of power, a company would have to install rows of them, either anchoring them to the lakes' bottom in relatively shallow water or allowing them to float. Pricetags could stretch into the tens of millions of dollars.
The turbines would be huge, towering as high as 120 metres with blade spans wider than a football field, said Walt Musial, senior engineer and offshore programs leader for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy contractor. Musial is scheduled to make a presentation at a June 14 conference at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
The payoff would come in increased energy production, Musial said. Winds over water are generally stronger, less turbulent and more consistent than on land. Major population and industrial centres such as Cleveland, Chicago, Gary, Ind., and Milwaukee sit on the Great Lakes' shores, reducing the need for long-distance transmission and providing an energy boost at the same time, he added.
"Offshore machines can make about twice as much as onshore," Musial said. "It's a potentially big resource for renewable energy. You want to generate the electricity close to where people are going to use it."
The concept isn't new. Several European countries, including Denmark and Great Britain, have developed wind farms in the North and Baltic seas, said John Dunlop, senior outreach representative with the American Wind Energy Association.
Houston-based Superior Renewable Energy plans to build a 170-turbine farm in the Gulf of Mexico about 16 kilometres off Padre Island. Another 50 turbines are planned off Galveston, Texas, and at least two other offshore projects have been proposed on the East Coast - one off Long Island and another off Cape Cod.
But the idea has been slow to catch on in the Great Lakes region.
Green Energy Ohio last fall built a wind-monitoring tower about five kilometres off Cleveland's Lake Erie shoreline to test the lake's potential for offshore turbines. But the state is looking toward land-based turbines, said Merle Madrid, a spokesman for the Ohio Department of Development.
"Offshore siting, particularly in fresh water environments, contains too many technical unknowns at this time, though we continue to be engaged in the research," Madrid said.
Officials with both the Michigan and Wisconsin public service commissions say they haven't seen any proposals for offshore wind in the Great Lakes.
Still, a 2004 report commissioned by the Wisconsin Focus on Energy Program, a partnership between the state and utilities to promote renewable sources, to study Lake Michigan wind speeds and shallows found the southern coastline holds great promise.
Seventh Generation Energy Systems, a nonprofit engineering firm, built a $114,500-US tower three kilometres off Racine's Lake Michigan shoreline last August to monitor wind speeds for three years. The state chipped in $49,000 US for the project.
Seventh Generation executive director David Blecker said the firm has no interest in building offshore turbines, but would-be developers could use the wind-speed data.
"The Europeans have shown again and again it can make sense," Blecker said.
Anyone who attempts an offshore wind farm in the Great Lakes would face formidable hurdles. Aside from the cost of construction - the Padre Island project is expected to ring in at $1 billion to $2 billion US - developers also would have to navigate a web of federal and state permits.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has jurisdiction over structures in the lakes, said Steven Metivier, a corps biologist in Buffalo, N.Y. Developers also would have to lease tracts of lake bottom from the states, which hold the underwater property rights, Metivier said. Plus, state utility regulators would have to sign off.
ALGOMA, Wis. (AP) - Little red lighthouse. Beach boardwalks. The blue-green waters of Lake Michigan stretching to the horizon. Just another pretty-as-a-postcard day on the shores of this sleepy town of 5,700 about a half-hour east of Green Bay.
But changes could be in store for Algoma and other towns and cities that line the Great Lakes. Energy experts are set to meet in Madison and Toledo, Ohio, next month to talk about the prospects of implanting giant electricity-generating windmills in the Great Lakes.
Advocates say offshore wind turbines would be a power generation jackpot. Opponents are cringing, fearing the windmills' impact on the lakes' aesthetics, tourism and fishing.
"I'll fight this every way I can," said Algoma alderman Ken Taylor, chairman of the city's marina committee. "The beautiful view we have would be destroyed ... how many (tourists and fishermen) are going to come here if we have these things off our coastline?"
Offshore turbines would be a risky undertaking for any utility. To generate a sizable amount of power, a company would have to install rows of them, either anchoring them to the lakes' bottom in relatively shallow water or allowing them to float. Pricetags could stretch into the tens of millions of dollars.
The turbines would be huge, towering as high as 120 metres with blade spans wider than a football field, said Walt Musial, senior engineer and offshore programs leader for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, a U.S. Department of Energy contractor. Musial is scheduled to make a presentation at a June 14 conference at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
The payoff would come in increased energy production, Musial said. Winds over water are generally stronger, less turbulent and more consistent than on land. Major population and industrial centres such as Cleveland, Chicago, Gary, Ind., and Milwaukee sit on the Great Lakes' shores, reducing the need for long-distance transmission and providing an energy boost at the same time, he added.
"Offshore machines can make about twice as much as onshore," Musial said. "It's a potentially big resource for renewable energy. You want to generate the electricity close to where people are going to use it."
The concept isn't new. Several European countries, including Denmark and Great Britain, have developed wind farms in the North and Baltic seas, said John Dunlop, senior outreach representative with the American Wind Energy Association.
Houston-based Superior Renewable Energy plans to build a 170-turbine farm in the Gulf of Mexico about 16 kilometres off Padre Island. Another 50 turbines are planned off Galveston, Texas, and at least two other offshore projects have been proposed on the East Coast - one off Long Island and another off Cape Cod.
But the idea has been slow to catch on in the Great Lakes region.
Green Energy Ohio last fall built a wind-monitoring tower about five kilometres off Cleveland's Lake Erie shoreline to test the lake's potential for offshore turbines. But the state is looking toward land-based turbines, said Merle Madrid, a spokesman for the Ohio Department of Development.
"Offshore siting, particularly in fresh water environments, contains too many technical unknowns at this time, though we continue to be engaged in the research," Madrid said.
Officials with both the Michigan and Wisconsin public service commissions say they haven't seen any proposals for offshore wind in the Great Lakes.
Still, a 2004 report commissioned by the Wisconsin Focus on Energy Program, a partnership between the state and utilities to promote renewable sources, to study Lake Michigan wind speeds and shallows found the southern coastline holds great promise.
Seventh Generation Energy Systems, a nonprofit engineering firm, built a $114,500-US tower three kilometres off Racine's Lake Michigan shoreline last August to monitor wind speeds for three years. The state chipped in $49,000 US for the project.
Seventh Generation executive director David Blecker said the firm has no interest in building offshore turbines, but would-be developers could use the wind-speed data.
"The Europeans have shown again and again it can make sense," Blecker said.
Anyone who attempts an offshore wind farm in the Great Lakes would face formidable hurdles. Aside from the cost of construction - the Padre Island project is expected to ring in at $1 billion to $2 billion US - developers also would have to navigate a web of federal and state permits.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has jurisdiction over structures in the lakes, said Steven Metivier, a corps biologist in Buffalo, N.Y. Developers also would have to lease tracts of lake bottom from the states, which hold the underwater property rights, Metivier said. Plus, state utility regulators would have to sign off.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Largest U.S. Wind Energy Event Ever
Largest U.S. Wind Energy Event Ever Will Bring Together Utility, National, and State Leaders
Press Release from American Wind Energy Association
May 22, 2006
WINDPOWER 2006 Conference & Exhibition Will Mark Wind Energy's Breakthrough Into Second-largest Source of New Power Generation in U.S., Present Plans for Advancement of Industry.
"These are heady times for the wind industry, with a record year in 2005, and 2006 looking even better."
- Randall Swisher, AWEA Executive Director From June 4 - 7, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) will bring together utility and business leaders, national and state policymakers, and renewable energy advocates at its largest conference and trade show ever, hosting more than 4,500 attendees at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, PA.
The WINDPOWER 2006 Conference & Exhibition will feature a spectacular Exhibition Hall with more than 280 companies demonstrating advanced products and technology, an awards banquet honoring over 20 individuals from across the nation for leadership in the development and promotion of wind energy, and plenary and educational sessions featuring state governors, U.S. administration leaders, and utility and wind industry executives tackling the industry's current challenges and presenting a vision for the future.
Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing energy sources in the world. In 2005, new wind farms were the second-largest source of new power generation in the U.S., after new natural gas power plants. In February, President George W. Bush asserted that wind energy could provide up to 20% of the nations electricity, up from less than 1% today.
"These are heady times for the wind industry, with a record year in 2005, and 2006 looking even better," said AWEA Executive Director Randall Swisher. "The industry is working overtime to keep up with the exciting growth and demand. Clean, renewable, domestic wind power is an important part of the solution to the ever-increasing public calls for energy sources that reduce our dependence on imported fuels and work for our economy, environment, and energy security."
Christine Real de Azua
Assistant Director of Communications
American Wind Energy Association
Direct phone: (202) 383-2508
Fax: (202) 383-2505
Email: Christine@awea.org
Web: www.awea.org
Press Release from American Wind Energy Association
May 22, 2006
WINDPOWER 2006 Conference & Exhibition Will Mark Wind Energy's Breakthrough Into Second-largest Source of New Power Generation in U.S., Present Plans for Advancement of Industry.
"These are heady times for the wind industry, with a record year in 2005, and 2006 looking even better."
- Randall Swisher, AWEA Executive Director From June 4 - 7, the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) will bring together utility and business leaders, national and state policymakers, and renewable energy advocates at its largest conference and trade show ever, hosting more than 4,500 attendees at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, PA.
The WINDPOWER 2006 Conference & Exhibition will feature a spectacular Exhibition Hall with more than 280 companies demonstrating advanced products and technology, an awards banquet honoring over 20 individuals from across the nation for leadership in the development and promotion of wind energy, and plenary and educational sessions featuring state governors, U.S. administration leaders, and utility and wind industry executives tackling the industry's current challenges and presenting a vision for the future.
Wind energy is one of the fastest-growing energy sources in the world. In 2005, new wind farms were the second-largest source of new power generation in the U.S., after new natural gas power plants. In February, President George W. Bush asserted that wind energy could provide up to 20% of the nations electricity, up from less than 1% today.
"These are heady times for the wind industry, with a record year in 2005, and 2006 looking even better," said AWEA Executive Director Randall Swisher. "The industry is working overtime to keep up with the exciting growth and demand. Clean, renewable, domestic wind power is an important part of the solution to the ever-increasing public calls for energy sources that reduce our dependence on imported fuels and work for our economy, environment, and energy security."
Christine Real de Azua
Assistant Director of Communications
American Wind Energy Association
Direct phone: (202) 383-2508
Fax: (202) 383-2505
Email: Christine@awea.org
Web: www.awea.org
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Kansas's Largest Wind Energy Farm Dedicated to Power on the Prairie
Kansas's Largest Wind Energy Farm Dedicated to Power on the Prairie
LATHAM, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 11, 2006--Public officials and energy industry representatives joined hundreds of local schoolchildren and their families in central Kansas to dedicate on May 11, 2006 the state's newest wind energy farm, the Elk River Wind Power Project. The "Power on the Prairie" ceremony also included the announcement of $100,000 in funding for prairie chicken research at Kansas State University (KSU).
"The Elk River wind power plant represents a major step forward in the development of renewable energy in Kansas," said Raimund Grube, vice president of PPM WindPower. "The benefits of projects like Elk River are immense -- contributions to rural economies, jobs, and above all, clean, cost-competitive wind power."
Owned by Portland, Ore.-based PPM Energy (PPM), ScottishPower's (NYSE:SPI) competitive U.S. energy business, Elk River uses 100 GE 1.5 megawatt turbines to produce approximately 550,000 megawatt-hours of energy annually -- enough to power 42,000 homes.
The energy generated by Elk River is sold to Empire District Electric Company. "Our customers have enjoyed the benefit of the Elk River wind farm since we began receiving test energy last October," said Brad Beecher, vice president-energy supply, The Empire District Electric Company. "During the two and one-half months of 2005 when energy was available, Elk River provided our system about 75,000 megawatt-hours of power at a cost about 64 percent lower than we would have paid for purchased power from the market. That drove a reduction in costs of about $3.3 million. In the first quarter of 2006, a period when the plant was fully commercial, Elk River generated 142,595 megawatt-hours and contributed an estimated savings of about $4.2 million. The impact of Elk River has far exceeded our expectations and our customers and shareholders have enjoyed the financial benefits. We look forward to our continued relationship with PPM and the Elk River Wind Farm."
The impressive white wind turbines, standing in neat rows on cattle grazing land, take up less than two percent of the total land leased for the project.
"I am the fourth generation to ranch on this property," said Peter Ferrell, a local landowner. "My family has been here since 1888 and that weighs heavily on my decision to engage in practices that can be carried on generation after generation without depleting the resources. Both the grass and the wind will be here for generations."
Butler County Commissioner Mike Wheeler noted that many members of the next generation were in attendance and eager to learn. "I am excited to see the participation of more than 400 Butler County students today at the ceremony," said Wheeler. "They will be touring not only the towers, but also learning a little bit about the history of Beaumont. The Bluestem (Elementary) journalism class is capturing all the events with photography."
Dr. Robert Robel, a professor emeritus from KSU and an expert on prairie-chicken populations, praised the project parties for their cooperation. "This collaborative research effort is unique," said Robel. "Very seldom do you see developers, wildlife ecologists, federal agencies, state entities, and preservationists working together to examine a perceived problem. No matter what the outcome of the research effort, society will benefit from the scientific approach to the questions being addressed."
Greenlight Energy, the original developer of the Elk River Wind Farm, is pleased that the initial vision for the wind farm was fully realized when the project began generating power in December of 2005. "When we first began developing the project in 2002, we knew this was going to be a special project," said Matt Hantzmon, managing director of Greenlight Energy. "It was only through a team effort, which included the project landowners; Butler County, HMH Resources, and PPM Energy, among others, that we were able complete a project of this scale and quality."
Jeff Schlichting, president of HMH Energy Resources, Inc., summed up the significance of the day and of the project: "With the completion of the Elk River Wind Farm, Kansas became one of the top ten states in the US for renewable energy generation capacity. This project represents the culmination of efforts by many individuals and organizations, propelling Kansas into its rightful position of leadership in wind energy."
News media seeking sources may contact:
Jan Johnson, PPM Energy, 503-796-7070 / 503-799-6925
Amy Bass, Empire District Electric Co., 417-625-5114
Sandy Zieman, Butler County, 316-322-4300
Christine Real de Azua, American Wind Energy Association (AWEA),
202-383-2508
Project Sponsors Include:
-- Butler County
-- Communities of Beaumont and Latham
-- PPM Energy
-- Empire District Electric Company
-- GE Energy
-- Augusta Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Tourism Bureau
-- USD 205 (Bluestem/Haverhill School District
-- Friends of the Beaumont Water Tower
-- Greenlight Energy
LATHAM, Kan.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 11, 2006--Public officials and energy industry representatives joined hundreds of local schoolchildren and their families in central Kansas to dedicate on May 11, 2006 the state's newest wind energy farm, the Elk River Wind Power Project. The "Power on the Prairie" ceremony also included the announcement of $100,000 in funding for prairie chicken research at Kansas State University (KSU).
"The Elk River wind power plant represents a major step forward in the development of renewable energy in Kansas," said Raimund Grube, vice president of PPM WindPower. "The benefits of projects like Elk River are immense -- contributions to rural economies, jobs, and above all, clean, cost-competitive wind power."
Owned by Portland, Ore.-based PPM Energy (PPM), ScottishPower's (NYSE:SPI) competitive U.S. energy business, Elk River uses 100 GE 1.5 megawatt turbines to produce approximately 550,000 megawatt-hours of energy annually -- enough to power 42,000 homes.
The energy generated by Elk River is sold to Empire District Electric Company. "Our customers have enjoyed the benefit of the Elk River wind farm since we began receiving test energy last October," said Brad Beecher, vice president-energy supply, The Empire District Electric Company. "During the two and one-half months of 2005 when energy was available, Elk River provided our system about 75,000 megawatt-hours of power at a cost about 64 percent lower than we would have paid for purchased power from the market. That drove a reduction in costs of about $3.3 million. In the first quarter of 2006, a period when the plant was fully commercial, Elk River generated 142,595 megawatt-hours and contributed an estimated savings of about $4.2 million. The impact of Elk River has far exceeded our expectations and our customers and shareholders have enjoyed the financial benefits. We look forward to our continued relationship with PPM and the Elk River Wind Farm."
The impressive white wind turbines, standing in neat rows on cattle grazing land, take up less than two percent of the total land leased for the project.
"I am the fourth generation to ranch on this property," said Peter Ferrell, a local landowner. "My family has been here since 1888 and that weighs heavily on my decision to engage in practices that can be carried on generation after generation without depleting the resources. Both the grass and the wind will be here for generations."
Butler County Commissioner Mike Wheeler noted that many members of the next generation were in attendance and eager to learn. "I am excited to see the participation of more than 400 Butler County students today at the ceremony," said Wheeler. "They will be touring not only the towers, but also learning a little bit about the history of Beaumont. The Bluestem (Elementary) journalism class is capturing all the events with photography."
Dr. Robert Robel, a professor emeritus from KSU and an expert on prairie-chicken populations, praised the project parties for their cooperation. "This collaborative research effort is unique," said Robel. "Very seldom do you see developers, wildlife ecologists, federal agencies, state entities, and preservationists working together to examine a perceived problem. No matter what the outcome of the research effort, society will benefit from the scientific approach to the questions being addressed."
Greenlight Energy, the original developer of the Elk River Wind Farm, is pleased that the initial vision for the wind farm was fully realized when the project began generating power in December of 2005. "When we first began developing the project in 2002, we knew this was going to be a special project," said Matt Hantzmon, managing director of Greenlight Energy. "It was only through a team effort, which included the project landowners; Butler County, HMH Resources, and PPM Energy, among others, that we were able complete a project of this scale and quality."
Jeff Schlichting, president of HMH Energy Resources, Inc., summed up the significance of the day and of the project: "With the completion of the Elk River Wind Farm, Kansas became one of the top ten states in the US for renewable energy generation capacity. This project represents the culmination of efforts by many individuals and organizations, propelling Kansas into its rightful position of leadership in wind energy."
News media seeking sources may contact:
Jan Johnson, PPM Energy, 503-796-7070 / 503-799-6925
Amy Bass, Empire District Electric Co., 417-625-5114
Sandy Zieman, Butler County, 316-322-4300
Christine Real de Azua, American Wind Energy Association (AWEA),
202-383-2508
Project Sponsors Include:
-- Butler County
-- Communities of Beaumont and Latham
-- PPM Energy
-- Empire District Electric Company
-- GE Energy
-- Augusta Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Tourism Bureau
-- USD 205 (Bluestem/Haverhill School District
-- Friends of the Beaumont Water Tower
-- Greenlight Energy
Western Wind Energy Wins Key FERC Decision
Western Wind Energy Wins Key FERC Decision
May 9, 2006
Coquitlam, British Columbia [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] Western Wind Energy Corporation announced that the United States Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has issued a definitive decision in Western Wind's favor, allowing Western Wind to access a key transmission line.
"This order gives Western Wind an absolute right to build out its project right on schedule. Its goal was to deliver to the citizens of California, inexpensive, clean and reliable power, and deliver it as the company had expected."
-- Jeff Ciachurski, Western Wind Energy, CEO
The decision enables Western Wind to start work on its 120 megawatts (MW) power sales agreement with Southern California Edison. This agreement enables Western Wind to generate more than US $30 million per year in annual power sales, according to the company.
The FERC ordered the partners of the Sagebrush line, a 46-mile 230-kilovolt line, which runs straight through Western Wind's Windstar I project in Tehachapi, California, to interconnect and provide at least 50 MW, and up to 120 MW of transmission service to Western Wind's operating company in California. The two parties have 28 days to establish rates, terms and conditions.
Western Wind Energy had filed an action under Section 210 & 211 of the Federal Power Act, which allows a power provider to apply to the Commission for an order "requiring a transmission utility to provide interconnection and transmission services to the applicant."
"This order gives Western Wind an absolute right to build out its project right on schedule," said Jeff Ciachurski, CEO of Western Wind Energy. "Its goal was to deliver to the citizens of California, inexpensive, clean and reliable power, and deliver it as the company had expected. In addition, it's a great day for Western Wind's shareholders, who will now be able to enjoy the benefits of constructing a US $192 million state-of-the-art wind energy generating facility capable of delivering over US $600 million of electrical sales over a 20-year period."
Western Wind Energy is in a position to commence equipment procurement as soon as the interconnection agreement is finalized.
In other Western Wind Energy news, the company and Arizona Public Service have agreed to expand the terms of their current 15 MW agreement, to add an additional 25 MW of wind energy production, taking the total to 40 MW. If there is sufficient available capacity in the current transmission system, the agreement would go to 45 MW.
The added power will be generated from Western Wind's Kingman Steel Plant facility. The two companies have not yet agreed on final details on the extra capacity but Western Wind anticipates executing a formal agreement within the next 60 days.
May 9, 2006
Coquitlam, British Columbia [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] Western Wind Energy Corporation announced that the United States Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has issued a definitive decision in Western Wind's favor, allowing Western Wind to access a key transmission line.
"This order gives Western Wind an absolute right to build out its project right on schedule. Its goal was to deliver to the citizens of California, inexpensive, clean and reliable power, and deliver it as the company had expected."
-- Jeff Ciachurski, Western Wind Energy, CEO
The decision enables Western Wind to start work on its 120 megawatts (MW) power sales agreement with Southern California Edison. This agreement enables Western Wind to generate more than US $30 million per year in annual power sales, according to the company.
The FERC ordered the partners of the Sagebrush line, a 46-mile 230-kilovolt line, which runs straight through Western Wind's Windstar I project in Tehachapi, California, to interconnect and provide at least 50 MW, and up to 120 MW of transmission service to Western Wind's operating company in California. The two parties have 28 days to establish rates, terms and conditions.
Western Wind Energy had filed an action under Section 210 & 211 of the Federal Power Act, which allows a power provider to apply to the Commission for an order "requiring a transmission utility to provide interconnection and transmission services to the applicant."
"This order gives Western Wind an absolute right to build out its project right on schedule," said Jeff Ciachurski, CEO of Western Wind Energy. "Its goal was to deliver to the citizens of California, inexpensive, clean and reliable power, and deliver it as the company had expected. In addition, it's a great day for Western Wind's shareholders, who will now be able to enjoy the benefits of constructing a US $192 million state-of-the-art wind energy generating facility capable of delivering over US $600 million of electrical sales over a 20-year period."
Western Wind Energy is in a position to commence equipment procurement as soon as the interconnection agreement is finalized.
In other Western Wind Energy news, the company and Arizona Public Service have agreed to expand the terms of their current 15 MW agreement, to add an additional 25 MW of wind energy production, taking the total to 40 MW. If there is sufficient available capacity in the current transmission system, the agreement would go to 45 MW.
The added power will be generated from Western Wind's Kingman Steel Plant facility. The two companies have not yet agreed on final details on the extra capacity but Western Wind anticipates executing a formal agreement within the next 60 days.
Energy Department Signs Wind-to-Hydrogen Research Agreement
08 May 2006
Energy Department Signs Wind-to-Hydrogen Research Agreement
Project will compare producing hydrogen from wind power, electric grid
Washington – The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Xcel Energy, an electric power and natural gas utility, have signed a cooperative agreement for an innovative "wind to hydrogen" research, development and demonstration project.
Researchers will analyze and compare hydrogen production from wind power and the electric grid, according to a May 8 DOE press release.
The hydrogen will be produced through electrolysis – the process of using electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen atoms. NREL is DOE’s primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy-efficiency research and development.
"One unique feature of this system is the direct connection between the wind turbine and the electrolyzer, which will make the system more efficient," said Ben Kroposki, senior engineer at NREL's Center for Electric and Hydrogen Technologies and Systems.
The agreement supports the President Bush’s Hydrogen Fuel Initiative, which seeks to develop the hydrogen, fuel cell and infrastructure technologies needed to make it practical and cost-effective to use fuel cell vehicles by 2020.
The new wind-electrolysis system will be at NREL's National Wind Technology Center, where hydrogen will be produced, compressed and stored to be used as a vehicle fuel or to generate electricity.
The project will compare electrolyzer technologies and researchers will examine issues related to system efficiency, integration, compression, storage, cost and the use of a mixture of hydrogen and natural gas.
This partnership combines NREL's expertise in renewable energy and hydrogen with Xcel Energy's expertise in energy conversion, transmission, distribution and use. Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy plans to add 1,200 megawatts of wind energy capacity in Colorado, Minnesota and Texas by the end of 2007.
Xcel Energy will invest more than $1.25 million in the project; NREL and DOE will invest about $750,000.
For additional information on renewable energy resources, see Washington File articles on solar energy, hydrogen fuel cells, biomass and wind power.
For information on U.S. policy, see Energy Policy.
(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)
Energy Department Signs Wind-to-Hydrogen Research Agreement
Project will compare producing hydrogen from wind power, electric grid
Washington – The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and Xcel Energy, an electric power and natural gas utility, have signed a cooperative agreement for an innovative "wind to hydrogen" research, development and demonstration project.
Researchers will analyze and compare hydrogen production from wind power and the electric grid, according to a May 8 DOE press release.
The hydrogen will be produced through electrolysis – the process of using electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen atoms. NREL is DOE’s primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy-efficiency research and development.
"One unique feature of this system is the direct connection between the wind turbine and the electrolyzer, which will make the system more efficient," said Ben Kroposki, senior engineer at NREL's Center for Electric and Hydrogen Technologies and Systems.
The agreement supports the President Bush’s Hydrogen Fuel Initiative, which seeks to develop the hydrogen, fuel cell and infrastructure technologies needed to make it practical and cost-effective to use fuel cell vehicles by 2020.
The new wind-electrolysis system will be at NREL's National Wind Technology Center, where hydrogen will be produced, compressed and stored to be used as a vehicle fuel or to generate electricity.
The project will compare electrolyzer technologies and researchers will examine issues related to system efficiency, integration, compression, storage, cost and the use of a mixture of hydrogen and natural gas.
This partnership combines NREL's expertise in renewable energy and hydrogen with Xcel Energy's expertise in energy conversion, transmission, distribution and use. Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy plans to add 1,200 megawatts of wind energy capacity in Colorado, Minnesota and Texas by the end of 2007.
Xcel Energy will invest more than $1.25 million in the project; NREL and DOE will invest about $750,000.
For additional information on renewable energy resources, see Washington File articles on solar energy, hydrogen fuel cells, biomass and wind power.
For information on U.S. policy, see Energy Policy.
(Distributed by the Bureau of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)
Pan-European Wind Energy Grid Proposed
Pan-European Wind Energy Grid Proposed
May 10, 2006
Airtricity announced plans for an undersea power grid that would connect a host of wind projects, including a new proposal for a 10 GW project.
Photo: Bonus Energy
[RenewableEnergyAccess.com] As more wind energy projects go online in Europe, concerns remain that additional generation will require backup generation from other electricity production to balance out times when the wind doesn't blow. One of the world's leading wind energy developers believes it has an answer that could help avoid concerns over backing-up intermittent wind power while also offering a more efficient, dynamic electric grid.
"The Supergrid offers a unique opportunity to Member States to improve their security of energy supply. The power generated will be a common European rather than a national asset. Wind energy is a continental resource and thanks to the Supergrid it will be the common property of all the Member States."
-- statement from Airtricity Ireland-based Airtricity this week unveiled plans to create a pan European undersea energy grid, or so-called Supergrid, that would link a series of wind farms from as far ranging locations as the Mediterranean, up to the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic and all the way up to the North Sea and Baltic Sea.
"The scale of this undertaking means that when fully operational Europe will have access to wind energy at all times because the wind will always be blowing somewhere on the grid," said Airtricity's Chief Executive, Eddie O'Connor.
The company will formally introduce the ambitious plan at a Parliamentary reception for MPs in Westminster today. In conjunction, the wind energy developer will also outline a proposal to build a Euro 22 billion, 10 gigawatt (GW) offshore wind energy project that would cover a wind expanse in the North Sea between the UK, Germany and the Netherlands.
The company's Supergrid concept will play an important complementary role for the project that would greatly eclipse by size any current wind project, offshore or terrestrial. As many as eight million European homes could be powered by a project this size.
ABB Ltd. will be the project partner on the transmission side of the Supergrid. Trevor Gregory, Managing Director of ABB said they have established an advanced transmission technology called HVDC light which, among a number of applications, is used for demanding offshore applications. HVDC Light not only feeds electricity to platforms but it also connects and supports the integration of electrical networks.
Since the project will require the approval of the EU, and involves multiple countries across almost the entire span of the European continent, Airtricity pitched the plan as an energy proposal for the wider European Union, not to specific nations.
"The Supergrid offers a unique opportunity to Member States to improve their security of energy supply," said the company, in a statement. "The power generated will be a common European rather than a national asset. Wind energy is a continental resource and thanks to the Supergrid it will be the common property of all the Member States.
Airtricity has plenty of wind energy experience, operating, among others, the Arklow Bank wind farm, the first real-world test of GE Energy's large 3.6 MW offshore wind turbines. The company is currently expanding operations into Scotland, England, and parts of the U.S. It currently has several thousands of megawatts of capacity in the planning and construction stages.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
May 10, 2006
Airtricity announced plans for an undersea power grid that would connect a host of wind projects, including a new proposal for a 10 GW project.
Photo: Bonus Energy
[RenewableEnergyAccess.com] As more wind energy projects go online in Europe, concerns remain that additional generation will require backup generation from other electricity production to balance out times when the wind doesn't blow. One of the world's leading wind energy developers believes it has an answer that could help avoid concerns over backing-up intermittent wind power while also offering a more efficient, dynamic electric grid.
"The Supergrid offers a unique opportunity to Member States to improve their security of energy supply. The power generated will be a common European rather than a national asset. Wind energy is a continental resource and thanks to the Supergrid it will be the common property of all the Member States."
-- statement from Airtricity Ireland-based Airtricity this week unveiled plans to create a pan European undersea energy grid, or so-called Supergrid, that would link a series of wind farms from as far ranging locations as the Mediterranean, up to the Bay of Biscay in the Atlantic and all the way up to the North Sea and Baltic Sea.
"The scale of this undertaking means that when fully operational Europe will have access to wind energy at all times because the wind will always be blowing somewhere on the grid," said Airtricity's Chief Executive, Eddie O'Connor.
The company will formally introduce the ambitious plan at a Parliamentary reception for MPs in Westminster today. In conjunction, the wind energy developer will also outline a proposal to build a Euro 22 billion, 10 gigawatt (GW) offshore wind energy project that would cover a wind expanse in the North Sea between the UK, Germany and the Netherlands.
The company's Supergrid concept will play an important complementary role for the project that would greatly eclipse by size any current wind project, offshore or terrestrial. As many as eight million European homes could be powered by a project this size.
ABB Ltd. will be the project partner on the transmission side of the Supergrid. Trevor Gregory, Managing Director of ABB said they have established an advanced transmission technology called HVDC light which, among a number of applications, is used for demanding offshore applications. HVDC Light not only feeds electricity to platforms but it also connects and supports the integration of electrical networks.
Since the project will require the approval of the EU, and involves multiple countries across almost the entire span of the European continent, Airtricity pitched the plan as an energy proposal for the wider European Union, not to specific nations.
"The Supergrid offers a unique opportunity to Member States to improve their security of energy supply," said the company, in a statement. "The power generated will be a common European rather than a national asset. Wind energy is a continental resource and thanks to the Supergrid it will be the common property of all the Member States.
Airtricity has plenty of wind energy experience, operating, among others, the Arklow Bank wind farm, the first real-world test of GE Energy's large 3.6 MW offshore wind turbines. The company is currently expanding operations into Scotland, England, and parts of the U.S. It currently has several thousands of megawatts of capacity in the planning and construction stages.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
US wind energy on track for another record year
US wind energy on track for another record year
Wednesday, 10 May 2006
The US wind energy industry is on track to installing a record-breaking 3,000MW this year the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) said in its First Quarter Market Report.
Construction is under way on a number of facilities scheduled for completion in 2006. Over 400MW of new plants have already been brought online since January. More of these positive outcomes could be held up, however, by concern over potential effects on civilian or military radar. Action by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regional offices and the Department of Defense (DOD) has effectively halted development of several pending wind energy facilities and the potential exists for more such shutdowns. Installation of the vast majority of proposed projects is on schedule, but a total of at least 500MW due for completion this year and next is now under a de facto moratorium, according to initial AWEA estimates, and that number could grow if the issue is not swiftly and appropriately resolved as part of the project siting process.
The possibility of radar interference has been known for a long time, and a variety of solutions already exist: wind turbines and radars function successfully in areas at home and abroad where wind turbines are in operation (including on military bases such as Guantanamo Bay and Wyoming’s F.E. Warren Air Force Base). AWEA recognizes and respects the paramount importance of any concerns relating to security, and supports resolving legitimate problems as quickly as possible.
Wednesday, 10 May 2006
The US wind energy industry is on track to installing a record-breaking 3,000MW this year the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) said in its First Quarter Market Report.
Construction is under way on a number of facilities scheduled for completion in 2006. Over 400MW of new plants have already been brought online since January. More of these positive outcomes could be held up, however, by concern over potential effects on civilian or military radar. Action by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regional offices and the Department of Defense (DOD) has effectively halted development of several pending wind energy facilities and the potential exists for more such shutdowns. Installation of the vast majority of proposed projects is on schedule, but a total of at least 500MW due for completion this year and next is now under a de facto moratorium, according to initial AWEA estimates, and that number could grow if the issue is not swiftly and appropriately resolved as part of the project siting process.
The possibility of radar interference has been known for a long time, and a variety of solutions already exist: wind turbines and radars function successfully in areas at home and abroad where wind turbines are in operation (including on military bases such as Guantanamo Bay and Wyoming’s F.E. Warren Air Force Base). AWEA recognizes and respects the paramount importance of any concerns relating to security, and supports resolving legitimate problems as quickly as possible.
Pennsylvania Invests $10 Million for Clean Energy Projects
Pennsylvania Invests $10 Million for Clean Energy Projects
May 12, 2006
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] Governor Edward G. Rendell announced Pennsylvania will create jobs in the alternative energy industry and provide affordable, reliable energy for Commonwealth businesses and residents by investing $10 million in new clean energy projects.
Eligible Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority (PEDA) projects include solar energy, wind, low-impact hydropower, geothermal, methane gas, biomass, fuel cells, waste coal, integrated gasification combined cycle, recycled energy and energy recovery, energy efficiency and load management, and alternative fuels for transportation. "Pennsylvania is changing the way clean energy is produced and distributed," Governor Rendell said. "This $10 million investment will continue the Commonwealth's leadership in one of the most important issues of our time: energy security."
Governor Rendell made $5 million in grants available for the third round of Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority (PEDA) funding. PEDA has awarded $15 million in grants and loans for 41 clean energy projects that will leverage another $200 million in private investment. The projects will create 1,558 permanent and construction jobs. Research projects could net more than 300 full-time jobs.
The Governor also announced $5 million in available grants for the fourth round of funding under the Pennsylvania Energy Harvest Grant Program. Since 2003, this program has awarded $15.9 million and leveraged another $43.7 million in private funds for more than 100 clean energy projects.
Eligible PEDA projects may include solar energy; wind; low-impact hydropower; geothermal; biologically derived methane gas, including landfill gas; biomass; fuel cells; coal-mine methane; waste coal; integrated gasification combined cycle; demand management measures, including recycled energy and energy recovery, energy efficiency and load management; and clean, alternative fuels for transportation. PEDA project priorities include solar, distributed generation for critical public infrastructure and clean, alternative fuels for transportation.
Pennsylvania's commitment to wind production provides enough clean energy to power about 70,000 homes. Gamesa, the second largest wind energy company in the world, is investing $84 million in Pennsylvania for four manufacturing facilities and its North American headquarters. As many as 1,000 jobs will be created over five years.
May 12, 2006
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] Governor Edward G. Rendell announced Pennsylvania will create jobs in the alternative energy industry and provide affordable, reliable energy for Commonwealth businesses and residents by investing $10 million in new clean energy projects.
Eligible Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority (PEDA) projects include solar energy, wind, low-impact hydropower, geothermal, methane gas, biomass, fuel cells, waste coal, integrated gasification combined cycle, recycled energy and energy recovery, energy efficiency and load management, and alternative fuels for transportation. "Pennsylvania is changing the way clean energy is produced and distributed," Governor Rendell said. "This $10 million investment will continue the Commonwealth's leadership in one of the most important issues of our time: energy security."
Governor Rendell made $5 million in grants available for the third round of Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority (PEDA) funding. PEDA has awarded $15 million in grants and loans for 41 clean energy projects that will leverage another $200 million in private investment. The projects will create 1,558 permanent and construction jobs. Research projects could net more than 300 full-time jobs.
The Governor also announced $5 million in available grants for the fourth round of funding under the Pennsylvania Energy Harvest Grant Program. Since 2003, this program has awarded $15.9 million and leveraged another $43.7 million in private funds for more than 100 clean energy projects.
Eligible PEDA projects may include solar energy; wind; low-impact hydropower; geothermal; biologically derived methane gas, including landfill gas; biomass; fuel cells; coal-mine methane; waste coal; integrated gasification combined cycle; demand management measures, including recycled energy and energy recovery, energy efficiency and load management; and clean, alternative fuels for transportation. PEDA project priorities include solar, distributed generation for critical public infrastructure and clean, alternative fuels for transportation.
Pennsylvania's commitment to wind production provides enough clean energy to power about 70,000 homes. Gamesa, the second largest wind energy company in the world, is investing $84 million in Pennsylvania for four manufacturing facilities and its North American headquarters. As many as 1,000 jobs will be created over five years.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Wind Farm to Be Built Off Texas Coast
May 11, 2006, 6:27PM
Wind Farm to Be Built Off Texas Coast
By LYNN BREZOSKY Associated Press Writer
© 2006 The Associated Press
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas — Texas officials announced plans Thursday for the nation's largest offshore wind farm, consisting of as many as 170 windmills out in the Gulf of Mexico.
Houston-based Superior Renewable Energy will build and operate the project, which will be situated within about 10 miles of Padre Island. It is expected to cost $1 billion to $2 billion and should be ready in five years.
Its 400-foot turbines would generate a total of 500 megawatts of electricity, or enough energy for 125,000 homes.
"The wind rush is on," Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson said. "We want to be No. 1. We want to attract the businesses that build the turbines, that build the blades."
Some environmentalists said the spinning blades could kill countless rare birds that migrate through the area each year on their way to and from winter grounds in Mexico and Central America.
"You probably couldn't pick a worse location," said Walter Kittelberger, chairman of the Lower Laguna Madre Foundation, an environmental group named for the strip of water between the mainland and Padre Island.
John Calaway, Superior's chief executive, said the company would do everything possible to reduce the threat to migrating birds. "Of course there's going to be some mortality, but we don't think it will be significant," he said.
Patterson said the wind farm would be situated off a remote, unpopulated part of Padre Island National Seashore. People who are concerned about the farm obstructing the ocean view "shouldn't have a problem," he said. "There's nobody there to look at it."
The offshore farm is the second announced in less than a year for the Texas coast, joining 50 wind turbines planned off Galveston.
Jerome Collins of the Sierra Club said his and other groups support wind energy and hoped to work with enery producers to prevent bird deaths and protect the scenic landscape.
According to the American Wind Energy Association, the U.S. produces 9,149 megawatts of wind power, enough to power 2.3 million homes annually. The largest U.S. wind farm is the Stateline Wind Energy Center on the Oregon-Washington line, producing 300 megawatts of electricity.
The Texas announcement comes amid a bitter fight over a proposed 130-turbine wind farm off Cape Cod, Mass., where residents fear the turbines will be unsightly.
Wind Farm to Be Built Off Texas Coast
By LYNN BREZOSKY Associated Press Writer
© 2006 The Associated Press
SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas — Texas officials announced plans Thursday for the nation's largest offshore wind farm, consisting of as many as 170 windmills out in the Gulf of Mexico.
Houston-based Superior Renewable Energy will build and operate the project, which will be situated within about 10 miles of Padre Island. It is expected to cost $1 billion to $2 billion and should be ready in five years.
Its 400-foot turbines would generate a total of 500 megawatts of electricity, or enough energy for 125,000 homes.
"The wind rush is on," Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson said. "We want to be No. 1. We want to attract the businesses that build the turbines, that build the blades."
Some environmentalists said the spinning blades could kill countless rare birds that migrate through the area each year on their way to and from winter grounds in Mexico and Central America.
"You probably couldn't pick a worse location," said Walter Kittelberger, chairman of the Lower Laguna Madre Foundation, an environmental group named for the strip of water between the mainland and Padre Island.
John Calaway, Superior's chief executive, said the company would do everything possible to reduce the threat to migrating birds. "Of course there's going to be some mortality, but we don't think it will be significant," he said.
Patterson said the wind farm would be situated off a remote, unpopulated part of Padre Island National Seashore. People who are concerned about the farm obstructing the ocean view "shouldn't have a problem," he said. "There's nobody there to look at it."
The offshore farm is the second announced in less than a year for the Texas coast, joining 50 wind turbines planned off Galveston.
Jerome Collins of the Sierra Club said his and other groups support wind energy and hoped to work with enery producers to prevent bird deaths and protect the scenic landscape.
According to the American Wind Energy Association, the U.S. produces 9,149 megawatts of wind power, enough to power 2.3 million homes annually. The largest U.S. wind farm is the Stateline Wind Energy Center on the Oregon-Washington line, producing 300 megawatts of electricity.
The Texas announcement comes amid a bitter fight over a proposed 130-turbine wind farm off Cape Cod, Mass., where residents fear the turbines will be unsightly.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Officials hope NorthWestern deal will boost wind power
Officials hope NorthWestern deal will boost wind power
By DIRK LAMMERS
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- The Australian company buying NorthWestern Corp. is one of the world's biggest players in wind farms, and officials hope that will translate to greater renewable energy opportunities in the region.
Sioux Falls-based NorthWestern announced Tuesday it has agreed to be acquired by Babcock & Brown Infrastructure of Sydney, Australia, in a cash deal worth $2.2 billion.
Bob Sahr, chairman of the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission, met with company officials this past week to discuss the deal. Sahr said most of the questions focused on the company's commitment to the state and its utility customers, but he did ask whether there would be a connection between the utility and Babcock & Brown's other ventures in wind power and transmission lines.
"They indicated that they were intrigued by South Dakota's wind power potential, that they knew it was one of the best in the world, but they would evaluate it on a case-by-case basis and look for projects that would make sense," Sahr said.
Babcock & Brown officials made similar statements to Montana officials during a meeting in Helena.
Tristan Peniston-Bird, a spokesman for the company, said there are no existing plans to build wind farms across South Dakota, but such opportunities would be considered.
"It's not that they plan to or are, but certainly it's something they would certainly consider, whether it would be BBI directly or NorthWestern would draw on BBI's experience in doing so," Peniston-Bird said.
One of Babcock & Brown's wind projects sits on tribal land, and that's encouraging to Pat Spears, president of the Rosebud-based Intertribal Council On Utility Policy.
Babcock & Brown partnered with GE Energy Financial Services to invest in a wind farm on the Campo Indian Reservation near the California-Mexico border. The 25 turbines, which started turning in 2005, generate 50 megawatts of electricity for customers in nearby San Diego. The tribe makes money on its land-lease contract and royalties.
Spears, who helped put the first tribally owned wind station on Indian land in 2003, said he hopes the company will consider tribal ventures when looking at wind power development in South Dakota.
"You would hope that new investment and new ownership would explore all of their avenues for wind energy development, and certainly including those on tribal lands that we're working on," said Spears, a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe.
The Rosebud Sioux Tribe's single 750-kilowatt turbine at its casino south of Mission can power 220 homes, and it's currently looking to expand the project into a 30 megawatt wind farm near St. Francis.
The utility council owns a majority interest in NativeEnergy, a privately held American Indian energy company. NativeEnergy and the council hope to build a series of small 10 megawatt wind farms on reservations across the Dakotas and Nebraska to create new revenue streams for the tribes.
Spears said the biggest challenge for tribes is finding a way to get the electricity to potential customers.
"Transmission capacity is limited out of South Dakota and North Dakota," he said. "That is the issue to move it to the urban markets."
Spears said he's hoping to get tribes and states behind wind energy development and request the federal government to fund a good transmission study.
Babcock & Brown Infrastructure has a 16.5 percent interest in Babcock & Brown Wind Partners, which has stakes in 15 wind farms in Australia, Europe and the United States, including:
--Two wind farms in Nolan County, Texas, with 86 turbines producing 129 megawatts to customers of TXU Energy and Austin Energy
--An 80-turbine wind farm in New Mexico, generating 80 megawatts of electricity for energy customers in the state
--A 45-turbine farm near Lawton, Okla., which generates 74.25 megawatts for Western Farmers Electric Cooperative members
--A 41-turbine farm in northeastern Oregon that sends 41 megawatts of energy to PacifiCorp customers
By DIRK LAMMERS
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- The Australian company buying NorthWestern Corp. is one of the world's biggest players in wind farms, and officials hope that will translate to greater renewable energy opportunities in the region.
Sioux Falls-based NorthWestern announced Tuesday it has agreed to be acquired by Babcock & Brown Infrastructure of Sydney, Australia, in a cash deal worth $2.2 billion.
Bob Sahr, chairman of the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission, met with company officials this past week to discuss the deal. Sahr said most of the questions focused on the company's commitment to the state and its utility customers, but he did ask whether there would be a connection between the utility and Babcock & Brown's other ventures in wind power and transmission lines.
"They indicated that they were intrigued by South Dakota's wind power potential, that they knew it was one of the best in the world, but they would evaluate it on a case-by-case basis and look for projects that would make sense," Sahr said.
Babcock & Brown officials made similar statements to Montana officials during a meeting in Helena.
Tristan Peniston-Bird, a spokesman for the company, said there are no existing plans to build wind farms across South Dakota, but such opportunities would be considered.
"It's not that they plan to or are, but certainly it's something they would certainly consider, whether it would be BBI directly or NorthWestern would draw on BBI's experience in doing so," Peniston-Bird said.
One of Babcock & Brown's wind projects sits on tribal land, and that's encouraging to Pat Spears, president of the Rosebud-based Intertribal Council On Utility Policy.
Babcock & Brown partnered with GE Energy Financial Services to invest in a wind farm on the Campo Indian Reservation near the California-Mexico border. The 25 turbines, which started turning in 2005, generate 50 megawatts of electricity for customers in nearby San Diego. The tribe makes money on its land-lease contract and royalties.
Spears, who helped put the first tribally owned wind station on Indian land in 2003, said he hopes the company will consider tribal ventures when looking at wind power development in South Dakota.
"You would hope that new investment and new ownership would explore all of their avenues for wind energy development, and certainly including those on tribal lands that we're working on," said Spears, a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe.
The Rosebud Sioux Tribe's single 750-kilowatt turbine at its casino south of Mission can power 220 homes, and it's currently looking to expand the project into a 30 megawatt wind farm near St. Francis.
The utility council owns a majority interest in NativeEnergy, a privately held American Indian energy company. NativeEnergy and the council hope to build a series of small 10 megawatt wind farms on reservations across the Dakotas and Nebraska to create new revenue streams for the tribes.
Spears said the biggest challenge for tribes is finding a way to get the electricity to potential customers.
"Transmission capacity is limited out of South Dakota and North Dakota," he said. "That is the issue to move it to the urban markets."
Spears said he's hoping to get tribes and states behind wind energy development and request the federal government to fund a good transmission study.
Babcock & Brown Infrastructure has a 16.5 percent interest in Babcock & Brown Wind Partners, which has stakes in 15 wind farms in Australia, Europe and the United States, including:
--Two wind farms in Nolan County, Texas, with 86 turbines producing 129 megawatts to customers of TXU Energy and Austin Energy
--An 80-turbine wind farm in New Mexico, generating 80 megawatts of electricity for energy customers in the state
--A 45-turbine farm near Lawton, Okla., which generates 74.25 megawatts for Western Farmers Electric Cooperative members
--A 41-turbine farm in northeastern Oregon that sends 41 megawatts of energy to PacifiCorp customers
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Counties, cities seek wind bonds
Published on Thursday, April 27, 2006.
Last modified on 4/27/2006 at 12:27 am
Counties, cities seek wind bonds
By NOELLE STRAUB
Gazette Washington Bureau
WASHINGTON -- More than 30 Montana cities and counties filed applications Wednesday for interest-free federal financing for wind energy projects, with Yellowstone and Cascade county commissioners coming to Washington to submit theirs and to lobby on rural issues.
The local governments submitted applications to the U.S. Treasury Department for a total of $37.2 million in renewable bonds for wind projects. A total of $800 million has been appropriated for the new program nationwide.
Yellowstone County Commissioner Bill Kennedy said the county requested slightly more than $4 million to build 18 wind turbines that would produce 4.5 megawatts of power.
That would be enough to power all of the county buildings, including MetraPark, the courthouse and the detention facility, he said. It costs $250,000 to pay for electricity at MetraPark annually, Kennedy said.
Cascade County Commission Chairwoman Peggy Beltrone said her county's application totaled $3.6 million that would finance 16 100-foot-tall towers that would produce 4 megawatts.
"Montana has one of the best wind resources in the nation, and yet we have had a slow start in wind energy," she said. "It will show people in Montana across these many jurisdictions ... that it can be done, that wind energy is possible. It's possible in our hometowns, possible in our home counties."
The pair met yesterday with Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., who crafted the program, called Clean Renewable Energy Bonds, that passed Congress as part of the 2005 energy bill.
Baucus said he's confident that Montana will do well in the approval process.
"The legislation was written in a way so that smaller projects are at the head of the line," he said.
The program will run for two years under existing legislation, but Baucus said he is working to extend it for three more.
Claud Matney and Mike Costanti of Matney-Frantz Engineering in Bozeman handled all the applications and came to Washington to submit them. The company has been working on energy projects since the 1970s.
Kennedy and Beltrone came to Washington as part of the annual legislative fly-in of the National Association of Counties Rural Action Caucus, which Kennedy chairs this year.
Caucus members from across the country came to Capitol Hill to meet with more than 30 members of Congress and with domestic policy assistants at the White House on rural issues.
Kennedy said the issues they covered included Community Development Block Grants, funding for methamphetamine prevention and law enforcement, funding for a rural schools act, and payments that rural counties with large tracts of federal land receive in lieu of taxes they could collect if that land were private.
Beltrone said she was also in town to pick up an award for Cascade County for its wind energy marketing program.
Montana counties applying for the wind grants are Big Horn, Blaine, Carbon, Cascade, Chouteau, Fergus, Golden Valley, Hill, Judith, Basin, Liberty, Meagher, Musselshell, Park, Pondera, Stillwater, Sweet Grass, Wheatland and Yellowstone.
Towns applying are Big Sandy, Big Timber, Chester, Chinook, Columbus, Conrad, Hardin, Harlem, Harlowton, Lavina, Lewistown, Livingston, Red Lodge, Roundup, Ryegate, Stanford and Three Forks.
Last modified on 4/27/2006 at 12:27 am
Counties, cities seek wind bonds
By NOELLE STRAUB
Gazette Washington Bureau
WASHINGTON -- More than 30 Montana cities and counties filed applications Wednesday for interest-free federal financing for wind energy projects, with Yellowstone and Cascade county commissioners coming to Washington to submit theirs and to lobby on rural issues.
The local governments submitted applications to the U.S. Treasury Department for a total of $37.2 million in renewable bonds for wind projects. A total of $800 million has been appropriated for the new program nationwide.
Yellowstone County Commissioner Bill Kennedy said the county requested slightly more than $4 million to build 18 wind turbines that would produce 4.5 megawatts of power.
That would be enough to power all of the county buildings, including MetraPark, the courthouse and the detention facility, he said. It costs $250,000 to pay for electricity at MetraPark annually, Kennedy said.
Cascade County Commission Chairwoman Peggy Beltrone said her county's application totaled $3.6 million that would finance 16 100-foot-tall towers that would produce 4 megawatts.
"Montana has one of the best wind resources in the nation, and yet we have had a slow start in wind energy," she said. "It will show people in Montana across these many jurisdictions ... that it can be done, that wind energy is possible. It's possible in our hometowns, possible in our home counties."
The pair met yesterday with Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., who crafted the program, called Clean Renewable Energy Bonds, that passed Congress as part of the 2005 energy bill.
Baucus said he's confident that Montana will do well in the approval process.
"The legislation was written in a way so that smaller projects are at the head of the line," he said.
The program will run for two years under existing legislation, but Baucus said he is working to extend it for three more.
Claud Matney and Mike Costanti of Matney-Frantz Engineering in Bozeman handled all the applications and came to Washington to submit them. The company has been working on energy projects since the 1970s.
Kennedy and Beltrone came to Washington as part of the annual legislative fly-in of the National Association of Counties Rural Action Caucus, which Kennedy chairs this year.
Caucus members from across the country came to Capitol Hill to meet with more than 30 members of Congress and with domestic policy assistants at the White House on rural issues.
Kennedy said the issues they covered included Community Development Block Grants, funding for methamphetamine prevention and law enforcement, funding for a rural schools act, and payments that rural counties with large tracts of federal land receive in lieu of taxes they could collect if that land were private.
Beltrone said she was also in town to pick up an award for Cascade County for its wind energy marketing program.
Montana counties applying for the wind grants are Big Horn, Blaine, Carbon, Cascade, Chouteau, Fergus, Golden Valley, Hill, Judith, Basin, Liberty, Meagher, Musselshell, Park, Pondera, Stillwater, Sweet Grass, Wheatland and Yellowstone.
Towns applying are Big Sandy, Big Timber, Chester, Chinook, Columbus, Conrad, Hardin, Harlem, Harlowton, Lavina, Lewistown, Livingston, Red Lodge, Roundup, Ryegate, Stanford and Three Forks.
Friday, April 21, 2006
India adds 1,702 MW wind energy capacity in FY06
India adds 1,702 MW wind energy capacity in FY06
April 20, 2006
MUMBAI (Reuters) - India added 1,702 megawatts of wind energy capacity in the year to March 2006, taking its total capacity to 5,300 MW, an industry association said on Thursday.
With this, India now has the fourth largest capacity in the world only behind Germany, Spain and the United States, the Indian Wind Energy Association (INWEA) said in a statement.
With a capacity of around 59,000 MW at the end of 2005, wind energy accounts for around 1 percent of global electricity generation.
INWEA said India's growth was largely driven by increasing energy shortage and shorter gestation periods for installing wind energy plants.
The country boasts of equipment manufacturing capacity worth 2,000 MW and expects exports to grow exponentially as the global wind energy market is seen expanding to 25,000 MW by 2010.
Led by key listed wind energy companies such as Suzlon Energy and NEPC India, India is set to become the manufacturing hub for wind energy machines.
April 20, 2006
MUMBAI (Reuters) - India added 1,702 megawatts of wind energy capacity in the year to March 2006, taking its total capacity to 5,300 MW, an industry association said on Thursday.
With this, India now has the fourth largest capacity in the world only behind Germany, Spain and the United States, the Indian Wind Energy Association (INWEA) said in a statement.
With a capacity of around 59,000 MW at the end of 2005, wind energy accounts for around 1 percent of global electricity generation.
INWEA said India's growth was largely driven by increasing energy shortage and shorter gestation periods for installing wind energy plants.
The country boasts of equipment manufacturing capacity worth 2,000 MW and expects exports to grow exponentially as the global wind energy market is seen expanding to 25,000 MW by 2010.
Led by key listed wind energy companies such as Suzlon Energy and NEPC India, India is set to become the manufacturing hub for wind energy machines.
MidAmerican to boost wind energy
MidAmerican to boost wind energy
Published: 04/21/2006 09:14 AM
By: Associated Press - Associated Press
DES MOINES, IA - Iowa's largest energy company plans to double its wind-generated electricity and has state approval to eventually nearly triple its output.
MidAmerican Energy Company, which accounted for most of Iowa's new wind capacity last year, received approval from the Iowa Utilities Board this week to add 545 megawatts of wind energy.
MidAmerican operates 360.5 megawatts of wind energy facilities in northern Iowa, and officials say the company will at least double that number in the coming years.
The state approved the plan on the condition that MidAmerican not raise its electricity rates in Iowa until 2010.
Iowa has more than 830 megawatts of wind energy capacity, ranking it third in the country behind California and Texas, according to the American Wind Energy Association.
In 2003, Gov. Tom Vilsack issued a challenge for Iowa to have 1,000 egawatts of renewable energy in Iowa by 2010. MidAmerican would operate more than 1,000 megawatts of wind, biomass and hydroelectric energy in Iowa if it adds the maximum 545 megawatts.
Vilsack said the expansion plan will have "a huge impact" on the state's energy industry.
A 545-megawatt wind project would result in the avoidance of up to 1.6 million tons of carbon dioxide annually -- the equivalent of eliminating 279,000 vehicles, company officials said.
"We are again adding renewable energy ... in a way that makes sense for our customers, our company and the state," said Todd Raba, president of MidAmerican Energy.
Most of MidAmerican's electricity is generated by burning coal. But last year, the company completed a $386 million, 257-turbine project in two northern Iowa sites, increasing its total generation from renewable sources to 9 percent. Iowa law requires at least 2 percent come from renewable sources.
This year, the company plans to complete a 99-megawatt expansion in Carroll and Crawford counties in west central Iowa. MidAmerican officials said the location of other projects and the amount the company will invest has not been determined.
MidAmerican is based in Des Moines and provides electricity to 706,000 customers and natural gas to 687,000 customers in Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and South Dakota.
Published: 04/21/2006 09:14 AM
By: Associated Press - Associated Press
DES MOINES, IA - Iowa's largest energy company plans to double its wind-generated electricity and has state approval to eventually nearly triple its output.
MidAmerican Energy Company, which accounted for most of Iowa's new wind capacity last year, received approval from the Iowa Utilities Board this week to add 545 megawatts of wind energy.
MidAmerican operates 360.5 megawatts of wind energy facilities in northern Iowa, and officials say the company will at least double that number in the coming years.
The state approved the plan on the condition that MidAmerican not raise its electricity rates in Iowa until 2010.
Iowa has more than 830 megawatts of wind energy capacity, ranking it third in the country behind California and Texas, according to the American Wind Energy Association.
In 2003, Gov. Tom Vilsack issued a challenge for Iowa to have 1,000 egawatts of renewable energy in Iowa by 2010. MidAmerican would operate more than 1,000 megawatts of wind, biomass and hydroelectric energy in Iowa if it adds the maximum 545 megawatts.
Vilsack said the expansion plan will have "a huge impact" on the state's energy industry.
A 545-megawatt wind project would result in the avoidance of up to 1.6 million tons of carbon dioxide annually -- the equivalent of eliminating 279,000 vehicles, company officials said.
"We are again adding renewable energy ... in a way that makes sense for our customers, our company and the state," said Todd Raba, president of MidAmerican Energy.
Most of MidAmerican's electricity is generated by burning coal. But last year, the company completed a $386 million, 257-turbine project in two northern Iowa sites, increasing its total generation from renewable sources to 9 percent. Iowa law requires at least 2 percent come from renewable sources.
This year, the company plans to complete a 99-megawatt expansion in Carroll and Crawford counties in west central Iowa. MidAmerican officials said the location of other projects and the amount the company will invest has not been determined.
MidAmerican is based in Des Moines and provides electricity to 706,000 customers and natural gas to 687,000 customers in Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and South Dakota.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
| Wind Power Contract Secured for Prince Edward Island
Wind Power Contract Secured for Prince Edward Island
April 19, 2006
Norway, Prince Edward Island (PEI) [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] With construction of the $18 million, 9-megawatt (MW) Norway Wind Park expected to begin this year and commissioned in the spring of 2007, Ventus Energy signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with PEI Energy Corp. to sell wind power.
"Private sector investments like these show the confidence that the private sector has in the growth potential for our economy, particularly in renewable energy. I look forward to this development and the positive spin-offs it will bring to our community."
-- Gail Shea, Transportation and Public Works Minister, PEI The Ventus Energy Norway Wind Park is to be built on the northwest tip of PEI, south of the Atlantic Wind Test Site at North Cape. The price for the 20-year term of this PPA is set at the feed-in tariff price established by the Government of PEI of $0.0775 per kilowatt hour (kWh).
A 12-month formal wind assessments study is completed and an environmental assessment study is well under way, expected to be completed this summer. Dr. Marina Silva and her team at the University of Prince Edward Island are completing the environmental work. The formal public meeting was held in June 2005 and terms of an interconnection agreement with Maritime Electric Corporation Limited are being finalized.
"We are delighted to make this announcement at this time. All of the hard work of the many talented people at Ventus Energy is beginning to pay off," said John Douglas, Ventus Energy's Chief Executive Officer. "The Norway Wind Park represents a substantial milestone in the development of Ventus Energy as an independent power producer. The Government of PEI has shown tremendous leadership in the renewable energy sector. We firmly believe that a fixed price tariff is the way to build a sustainable renewable energy industry in PEI," Douglas added.
"This investment by Ventus Energy is a great step forward for renewable energy development in West Prince," said Gail Shea, Transportation and Public Works Minister. "Private sector investments like these show the confidence that the private sector has in the growth potential for our economy, particularly in renewable energy. I look forward to this development and the positive spin-offs it will bring to our community," said Shea.
The 9 MW Norway Wind Park will generate an estimated 31,000 megawatt hours (MWh) per year of green power -- enough to power almost 5,000 PEI homes and displace the equivalent of nearly 30,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year.
Ventus Energy is developing more than 5,000 MW of potential wind power projects on 25 sites in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador. It has secured the rights to more than 17 million acres of land to conduct this wind energy development. Formal wind studies, interconnection and environmental assessments and other permitting activities are well underway at all sites. Ventus believes that this portfolio represents the largest portfolio of potential wind energy projects in Canada.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
April 19, 2006
Norway, Prince Edward Island (PEI) [RenewableEnergyAccess.com] With construction of the $18 million, 9-megawatt (MW) Norway Wind Park expected to begin this year and commissioned in the spring of 2007, Ventus Energy signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with PEI Energy Corp. to sell wind power.
"Private sector investments like these show the confidence that the private sector has in the growth potential for our economy, particularly in renewable energy. I look forward to this development and the positive spin-offs it will bring to our community."
-- Gail Shea, Transportation and Public Works Minister, PEI The Ventus Energy Norway Wind Park is to be built on the northwest tip of PEI, south of the Atlantic Wind Test Site at North Cape. The price for the 20-year term of this PPA is set at the feed-in tariff price established by the Government of PEI of $0.0775 per kilowatt hour (kWh).
A 12-month formal wind assessments study is completed and an environmental assessment study is well under way, expected to be completed this summer. Dr. Marina Silva and her team at the University of Prince Edward Island are completing the environmental work. The formal public meeting was held in June 2005 and terms of an interconnection agreement with Maritime Electric Corporation Limited are being finalized.
"We are delighted to make this announcement at this time. All of the hard work of the many talented people at Ventus Energy is beginning to pay off," said John Douglas, Ventus Energy's Chief Executive Officer. "The Norway Wind Park represents a substantial milestone in the development of Ventus Energy as an independent power producer. The Government of PEI has shown tremendous leadership in the renewable energy sector. We firmly believe that a fixed price tariff is the way to build a sustainable renewable energy industry in PEI," Douglas added.
"This investment by Ventus Energy is a great step forward for renewable energy development in West Prince," said Gail Shea, Transportation and Public Works Minister. "Private sector investments like these show the confidence that the private sector has in the growth potential for our economy, particularly in renewable energy. I look forward to this development and the positive spin-offs it will bring to our community," said Shea.
The 9 MW Norway Wind Park will generate an estimated 31,000 megawatt hours (MWh) per year of green power -- enough to power almost 5,000 PEI homes and displace the equivalent of nearly 30,000 tons of carbon dioxide per year.
Ventus Energy is developing more than 5,000 MW of potential wind power projects on 25 sites in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador. It has secured the rights to more than 17 million acres of land to conduct this wind energy development. Formal wind studies, interconnection and environmental assessments and other permitting activities are well underway at all sites. Ventus believes that this portfolio represents the largest portfolio of potential wind energy projects in Canada.
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Saturday, April 08, 2006
Prince Edward Island Wind - Hydrogen Village
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