GE Lands $1.4 Billion Wind Turbine Contract in Oregon

Strategic Insights -

GE has secured a substantial $1.4 billion contract from independent power producer Caithness Energy to supply wind turbines and provide services for the Shepherds Flat wind farm project in Oregon. This large-scale wind farm is expected to be the largest in operation globally, with 845 megawatts of capacity. The project, which spans 30 square miles, will be powered by 338 turbines and will help Oregon meet its demand for clean energy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Shepherds Flat wind farm is the largest single global order for GE's 2.5xl wind turbines, marking the US debut of the technology.
  • The wind farm will be built across 30 square miles in Gilliam and Morrow Counties in north-central Oregon, near the town of Arlington.
  • A total of 338 turbines will be installed in 2011 and 2012, with GE providing 10 years of operational and maintenance services.
  • The project will inject $16 million annually of direct economic benefits into Oregon, employing 400 workers during construction and 35 during operation.
  • The wind farm will supply renewable energy to Southern California Edison, meeting California's renewables portfolio standard and helping the state meet its capacity and renewable energy goals.
  • The project will avoid more than 1.5 million tons a year in greenhouse gas emissions, compared to equivalent fossil fuel generation.

Statistics:

  • The Shepherds Flat wind farm will have a capacity of 845 megawatts, making it the largest wind farm in operation globally.
  • The project will generate approximately 2 billion kilowatt-hours per year of renewable energy.
  • The wind farm will power approximately 235,000 average California households.
  • The project will avoid more than 1.5 million tons a year in greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The wind farm will have a 10-year operational period, in which GE will provide maintenance services.
  • The total economic benefits of the project will be $16 million annually.

Sources:

  • Caithness Energy, LLC press release
  • GE press release
  • Southern California Edison press release
  • US Environmental Protection Agency data