Engineering Inc. - January/February 2008 - (Page 19) mULti-Project FeAtUre Winds of Change Sixty-seven massive wind turbines, part of the Trimont Area Wind Farm in Minneapolis, generate power for more than 29,000 homes. Project: trimont Area Wind Farm Firm: HDr, inc., minneapolis W hen a coalition of 43 rural Minnesota landowners banded together to transform 22,000 acres of land into a massive wind-fueled power station, the hope was to create a renewable energy source strong enough to serve the needs of some 29,000 homes. As construction on the 100-megawatt Trimont Area Wind Farm began in mid-2005, the group tapped HDR, Inc., to help prepare its Large Wind Energy Conversion System Site Permit application, support preparation of the Certificate of Need and prepare additional permits required for construction. HDR also assisted in devising an environmentally friendly location for 67 massive wind turbines; performed wetland delineations, biological surveys and reviews for endangered species; and coordinated with outside resource agencies. Michelle Bissonnette, HDR vice president and project manager, says company scientists “examined proposed construction areas for wetlands, streams, cultural resources and natural areas and used Global Positioning Systems to map features in the field during land surveys.” The information was then uploaded into the project’s Geographic Information System and used to manage environmental constraints in relation to the evolving site layout, including the future placement of turbines, roads and underground electrical lines. For HDR, Bissonnette says, one of the largest challenges was ensuring that all project participants had a voice in the process and that the landowners—all 43 of them—could weigh in on the structuring of the massive ownership co-operative. “We provided a constant flow of information concerning turbine placement, environmental impacts, longterm benefits, construction schedules and design implementation,” she says. “While the environmental perks are easy to explain to consumers, renewable energy projects bring a cascade of sustainable benefits, resulting in Michelle Bissonnette communities that are healthier and more attractive to live in,” says Darryl Shoemaker, HDR senior vice president. “People are finding that renewable energy also is good for the economy, providing income, jobs and investment.” Beyond the obvious environmental and economic upside, the wind project also will benefit landowners, adjoining counties and homeowners that receive electricity—not to mention the state of Minnesota, which is now closer to reaching its mandated renewable energy standard of 25 percent by 2025. 19 jANUAry / FebrUAry 2008 eNGiNeeriNG iNc.
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