From The Republican-Leader
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Fillmore County landowners now have an opportunity to participate in a new large-scale community-owned wind project. National Wind, LLC announced its partnership with local landowners to form Root River Energy, LLC.
This is expected to be one of the largest community wind developments in Minnesota. Over the next five years, Root River Energy plans to develop 250 megawatts of wind energy, producing enough electricity to power nearly 75,000 homes.
National Wind, the project's manager, along with local landowners, and community leaders, have provided the founding capital to establish Root River Energy. Root River Energy, LLC has formed a members' advisory board that consists of the following Root River Energy founders: Craig and Ardis Forland, Joel and Barbara Nelson, Rick and Gina Jahn, Ronald and Lanna Gehling and Kenneth and Therese Graner.
"Root River Energy is one of the few utility-scale community wind projects in Minnesota that gives landowners the opportunity to participate on many levels," says Patrick Pelstring, co-chair of National Wind. "Community wind allows landowners to get the most out of a wind development. Community members have a strong stake in the project and the opportunity to have their voices heard. We value our relationships with Root River Energy landowners and we are committed to working with them throughout the project."
"I am a strong supporter of renewable energy. I joined Root River Energy as a board member because I have the unique opportunity to steer the course of the project to meet the local needs of my community," says Craig Forland, a Root River Energy founder. "I like that a portion of the proceeds from a community wind project stays in the hands of local landowners. The community's involvement really helps drive strong, local support for the project."
Last year, National Wind partnered with community members in Dodge, Olmsted and Mower counties to form Minnesota's first large-scale community wind project, High Country Energy, LLC. This 300 megawatt project currently has 150 megawatts committed to Wisconsin Public Service Corporation. In addition, National Wind recently announced the formation of Lake Country Wind Energy, LLC, a large community wind project in Meeker and Kandiyohi counties, Minnesota. Lake Country Wind Energy will develop 250 megawatts of locally-owned wind energy.
To read this story on the Republican-Leader website, please click here.
