April 27, 2006
News Release 06-07
Brad Peck, Corporate Communications
(509) 377-8247
RICHLAND, Wash. – Energy Northwest’s Board of Directors today passed a resolution authorizing development of a third phase of the Nine Canyon Wind Project, southeast of Kennewick, Wash. The resolution is a significant step in a complex development process that requires the board’s approval.
The expansion will grow the existing 49 turbine, 64 megawatt wind project to approximately 63 turbines capable of producing 96 megawatts at full power. Phase III is considered the final expansion opportunity for the project on the current leasehold surrounding its namesake canyon.
Energy Northwest officials have applied for Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREB), which were authorized under the Energy Policy Act of 2005. The zero-interest bonds are subject to an allocation process for new wind power projects and are only available through 2007.
Commissioner Lori Sanders commented: “Benton County PUD is very interested in ensuring that renewable energy is part of our portfolio, and so we are pleased with this addition.”
Commissioner Stu Nelson of Franklin County PUD made these comments: “Franklin PUD is pleased to work with Energy Northwest on the development of Phase III of the Nine Canyon Wind Project. In February of this year we assumed a 2.01 megawatt share of the Nine Canyon Wind project that allows us to participate in future additions to this project. Renewable resources are going to play a key role as we look to the future for diversified resources. Hydropower and wind energy are natural partners as hydropower’s flexibility can easily be used to “firm” wind generation, which is highly variable. Clean, competitive, pollution-free wind energy is a good way to meet the economic and environmental challenges of the future, while maintaining the best renewable resource the Pacific Northwest possesses – hydropower.”
Energy Northwest is a joint operating agency comprising 19 public power member utilities from throughout the State of Washington. Each of these utilities has a seat on the Board of Directors.
In addition to the Nine Canyon Wind Project, Energy Northwest owns and operates Columbia Generating Station (nuclear power plant), Packwood Lake Hydroelectric Project, and White Bluffs Solar Station. The joint operating agency also provides operations and maintenance services for other facilities.