Montana’s 80-MW Vivaldi Springtime Wind project is set to begin construction second quarter 2017.
NorthWestern Energy has entered into an agreement with WKN Montana II to purchase the energy, capacity, and environmental attributes from the 80-MW Vivaldi Springtime Wind project, a qualifying facility (QF) wind farm to be developed in south-central Montana.
After extensive negotiations between the developer and NorthWestern Energy, the price to be paid for this power is $37.63 per megawatt hour.
“We are pleased to have negotiated an agreement that will result in a very low-cost QF renewable project for our portfolio and that also incorporates important contract terms including reasonable curtailment rights which help protect our customers’ bills,” said John Hines, VP, energy supply at NorthWestern.
“Qualifying facilities can be problematic since we’re mandated by federal law to purchase the power, regardless of our customers’ needs. However, we’re pleased in this instance to work with a developer that takes into consideration our customers’ best interest while still having a viable project,” he added.
The Vivaldi Springtime Wind Project will be located in Stillwater County approximately 11 miles north of Reed Point. It will include 26-35 turbines depending on the manufacturer and is due begin construction second quarter 2017 and be completed by first quarter of 2018.
“This project is a great balance between the need for local economic development and the need for affordable electricity in our local communities,” said Stillwater County Commissioner Maureen Davey.
Filed Under: News, Projects
