Gamesa says its G114-2.0 MW, certified as a Class II/III turbine, can significantly increase energy output and achieve maximum yields from low and medium-wind sites.
Gamesa Technology Corp. has announced the first U.S. project to feature its G114-2.0 MW wind turbine. The 20-MW Big Turtle Wind Farm will be built near Harbor Beach in Huron County on the northeastern side of The Michigan Thumb, with more than 50% materials, labor, and transportation sourced locally.
“Delivering a low cost of energy is one of the key drivers behind sustained growth in the wind industry,” said Gonzalo Onzain, Vice President of Sales for Gamesa, North America. “Our G114-2.0 MW model represents an important milestone in the evolution of an already proven technology. Its significantly higher capacity factor reduces the cost of energy by 10% and will help keep electricity prices down in Michigan.”
Gamesa will supply 10 G114-2.0 MW turbines on 93-m towers to Traverse City, Mich.-based Heritage Sustainable Energy, which is developing the wind farm. The deal includes a 12-yr operation and maintenance services agreement.
Construction is set to begin this fall with turbine deliveries planned for next summer. The project is scheduled to be complete and online by fall 2014. Detroit-based DTE Electric Co. will purchase all of the power produced by the wind farm under a 20-yr power purchase agreement.
The project promises significant local benefits. More than 50% of the project materials, labor and transportation will be provided by local and regional suppliers in Michigan. Ventower Industries of Monroe, Mich., is supplying the towers.
“This project is a perfect example of how wind energy development can benefit our state and how partnerships like this can strengthen our local supply chain,” Heritage Vice President of Operations Rick Wilson said. “In addition, this is our second project with Gamesa; the first was the 28-MW Garden Wind Farm in Delta County, completed in 2012. Gamesa has proven to be a truly reliable partner and we look forward to deploying their newest technology.”
Gamesa’s G114-2.0 MW, certified as a Class II/III turbine, is designed to significantly increase energy output and achieve maximum yields from low- and medium-wind sites, delivering strong returns for customers. With a 114-meter rotor, the new turbine has a 38% larger swept area than Gamesa’s G97-2.0 MW turbine. A new blade design ensures maximum energy production, reduces noise levels and keeps cost of energy low. Altogether, the company now has more than 15 GW of installed capacity in 29 countries for its 2.0 MW platform, with availability levels consistently above 98%
Gamesa Technology Corp.
www.gamesa.com
Filed Under: News, Projects, Turbines
