First Wind announces commercial operation of Bull Hill Wind Project

First Wind announces commercial operation of Bull Hill Wind Project

 Greentech Lead U.S: First Wind, an independent U.S.-based
wind energy company, has just completed the construction of its 34 megawatt
(MW) Bull Hill Wind project. Commercial operations of the project have begun.

Located on the ridges of Bull Hill and Heifer Hill in
Hancock County, Maine, the project features 19 1.8 MW wind turbines that have
the capacity to generate enough clean energy to power nearly 18,000 homes. The
project features 19 Vestas V100-1.8 MW turbines.

Bull Hill Wind project represents First Wind’s fifth
project in Maine to achieve commercial operations, said Paul Gaynor, CEO of
First Wind. “It is a testament to our partners across the state and region, as
well as supportive business, citizen and local political leaders that we have
been able to complete this project ahead of schedule.”

“The Bull Hill Wind project will serve as a source of
cost-competitive renewable energy and a boost to the local economy through tax
revenues and ongoing operations,” Gaynor added.

With this project, Hancock County and Eastbrook will
receive an average aggregate tax payment of approximately $100,000 annually for
the next 20 years and an additional $240,000 annually in community benefit
payments–more than $7 million in total.

In addition, First Wind is providing a public safety
communication tower to Hancock County for improved communications for the
safety and rescue departments in the county.

The electricity generated from the project will be sold
to NSTAR under a long-term power purchase agreement, which First Wind signed in
August of 2011. The cost savings due to the fixed-price contract are expected
to save NSTAR ratepayers about $57 million over the life of the contract.

Construction on the Bull Hill Wind project started
earlier this year and created an average of 200 construction-related jobs while
generating significant revenue for the surrounding communities.  

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