Michigan green light for 455MW wind sale

The Michigan Public Service Commission has given conditional approval to DTE Energy to buy three wind farms with a combined capacity of 455MW for an undisclosed price. The projects are the 383MW Isabella 1 and 2 facilities, which will be acquired from Apex Clean Energy, and the 72MW Fairbanks plant to be bought from Heritage Sustainable Energy. The Isabella projects will comprise 136 GE 2.82-127 turbines. No details were supplied about the Fairbanks hardware. Approval is conditional on DTE agreeing to changes to its renewable energy plan imposed by the commission within 14 days. DTE will take ownership of the wind farms on completion, which is expected in the fourth quarter of 2020. The company will use at least two of the projects to meet the renewable energy needs of its largest commercial and industrial customers, including Ford, General Motors and the University of Michigan. DTE Energy president and chief executive Jerry Norcia said: “Investing in renewable energy is a key part of our commitment to reduce carbon emissions by at least 80% by 2040. “Adding these new wind parks to our portfolio will help us meet the clean energy needs of our largest customers who have chosen MIGreenPower.