Chicago, United States [RenewableEnergyWorld.com] Suzlon Wind Energy Corp. said it plans to develop 728 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy projects in the U.S. in 2010. The company plans to put nine projects on the ground in 2010, which will include 351 newly installed wind turbines in seven states.
In addition, these projects are expected to create more than 50 long-term wind turbine maintenance-related jobs in rural areas. During the construction and commissioning of the nine wind farms across the country, Suzlon estimates that its employees will contribute US $1.5 million to the nine local economies where they live and work.
The nine Suzlon projects are located in seven states, including Arizona, Idaho, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota, Oregon and Washington. They encompass community projects in Kansas and Minnesota, and the expansion of the first wind farm in Arizona. Nearly all projects feature Suzlon’s S88-2.1 MW wind turbine that routinely has performed well.
“We look forward to completing the many projects for Duke Energy, Iberdrola Renewables and others, while simultaneously funneling money back into rural economies and creating green jobs at each wind farm,” said Andris Cukurs, CEO of Suzlon Wind Energy. “Our construction and service teams are working fervently to install the turbines and get them online so they can begin generating clean power and providing a strong return for our customers’ investments, as well as tax revenues for local communities.”
Recently Suzlon contributed to the rebuilding of Greensburg, Kansas, which saw 95 percent of its structures destroyed by a tornado in May 2006. Greensburg’s wind farm is home to 10 Suzlon S64-1.25 MW wind turbines and shows the company’s commitment to community involvement in the development process.
“Suzlon and this wind farm provided a huge boost to this community after the tornado devastated the region and during our recent recovery,” said Greensburg Mayor Bob Dixson. “The town is making a remarkable comeback with our mission to be ‘better, stronger and greener.’ Suzlon’s turbines are helping us achieve our green energy goals and are serving to exemplify the potential for wind-powered towns.”
