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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Courtenay Wind Farm project began in 2008 with Geronimo Energy. In 2013, Xcel Energy entered into a purchase agreement. Earlier this year Xcel Energy became the owner of the project.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the 200 megawatt Wind Farm south of Courtenay on Friday, September 25.

Northern States Power Company president Chris Clark said everyone from landowners to lawmakers worked together to make this a reality and the end result benefits North Dakota and the surrounding community and our customers. He said 100 wind turbines will generate enough electricity to power 105,000 homes and generate about $850,000 annually in tax revenue to the county.

Senator John Hoeven said the Empower North Dakota energy plan set up in 2001 has helped turn North Dakota into an energy powerhouse. He said this $300 million dollar investment by Xcel Energy is just one example.

Stutsman County Commission Chair Mark Klose said a number of local and state officials overcame a few obstacles to help make this project a reality.

Xcel Energy’s Dave Sederquist said the $300 million project will create roughly 200 construction jobs along with 10 full-time jobs.

 

North Dakota Senator John Hoeven.

 

Stutsman County Commission Chair Mark Klose.

More than 60 landowners agreed to lease 25,000 acres of their land for this project.

Area landowner Tiffiney Dick said this investment by Xcel Energy is exciting news for the entire community and this region and we welcome this partnership.

Over the course of 20 years, area landowners involved with the project will receive a total of $26.5 million.

The average wind speed in Stutsman County is about 19 miles per hour with a prevailing northwest or south wind.

Wanzek Construction is the lead contractor. The project is tentatively set to be complete by the end of 2016.

 

Public Service Commissioner Brian Kalk said this is a good energy investment for the state of North Dakota.