PA Is More Than Gas, Pt 2: 8 New PA Wind Farms Possible By 2012

Previously this blog listed the three new wind farms that will begin operating this year.  But wind farm development is exploding for 2012. 

As many as 8 new wind farms could become operational in Pennsylvania by the end of 2012.  If the 8 that are in various stages of construction and development were all completed, they would add another 650 megawatts of wind power to Pennsylvania's existing 751 megawatts, bringing Pennsylvania's total wind power to 1401 megawatts.  That would be enough wind power to supply about 420,000 homes.

Here is the listing of the 8 wind farms that are in the pipeline, the companies that are developing them, and their possible date to commence operations:

1. The 46 megawatt South Chestnut Wind Farm (Iberdrola): Construction finishing and operational this October.

2. The 75 megawatt Highland North Wind Farm (Everpower): Construction underway and operational this November.

3. The 38 megawatt Chestnut Flats Wind Farm (Gamesa): Construction underway and operational at end of 2011 or early 2012.

4. The 50 megawatt Sandy Ridge Wind Farm (Gamesa): Construction underway and operational at end of 2011 or early 2012.

5. The 150 megawatt Twin Ridges Wind Farm (Everpower): Construction and operational in 2012

6. The 82.5 megawatt Fox Hill Wind Farm (AES): Construction expected to begin 4th quarter 2011 and operational in 2012.

7.  The 69 megawatt Laurel Hill Wind Farm(Duke Energy): Operational by September 2012.

8. The 140 megawatt Mehoopany Wind Farm (BP): Operational in 2012.

Will all these wind farms become operational by next year?  The odds are quite high that they will, and it is almost certain that at least 6 of the 8 will be operating by December 31, 2012