First Wind Begins Stetson Expansion
— Dec 01, 2009
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“This second phase of the Stetson Wind project continues Maine’s aggressive leadership in pursuing energy independence and developing clean, renewable sources of energy,” said Governor John Baldacci. “By harnessing these sources of energy locally, we keep money in our State and we create green jobs in Maine, all while improving our environment and our national security.”
To inaugurate the expansion, First Wind hosted a groundbreaking ceremony attended by state and local officials, business and community leaders and environmental organizations at the project site in Danforth, Maine. At the event, the Senate Republican Leader Kevin Raye (R-Perry) commented on the significance of the project’s expansion.
“The Stetson II groundbreaking represents another important step forward in Maine’s continuing effort to promote home-grown clean renewable energy that lessens our dependence on fossil fuels from foreign sources,” said Senator Raye. “I am glad that Washington County is playing a role in that effort and I’m hopeful that we will play an even greater role with both land-based and ocean-based energy production going forward.”
The first phase of the Stetson Wind project commenced operations in January 2009. In March 2009, First Wind received approval from the Maine Land Use Regulation Commission (LURC) to build the 25.5-MW expansion or second phase of its Stetson Wind project. Recently, Harvard University announced that it will purchase half of the power generated by the Stetson Wind II facility, as well as the associated Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs).
The expansion will consist of the construction and operation of 17 additional state-of-the-art GE 1.5 MW wind turbines, bringing the total to 55. When combined with the original Stetson project, the expansion will make the project an 82.5 MW facility. The work on the expansion will create employment opportunities during the design, engineering and construction of the facility. First Wind hires in-state businesses to conduct much of the needed work.
