Gulf Wind

Location	Armstrong, Texas
Construction Contractor	RES Americas
Turbine Manufacturer	Mitsubishi
Turbine Size	2.4 MW
Number of Turbines	118
Project Capacity	283.2 MW
Power Equivalent	80,000 homes
Acquisition	March 2010

The clean electricity produced each year by the Gulf Wind project offsets more than 553,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions – equal to the annual emissions of 88,500 cars. – Source: AWEA

In March 2010, Pattern acquired the Gulf Wind energy project from Babcock & Brown. Gulf Wind is strategically located on the Gulf Coast in Kenedy County, Texas, where favorable wind conditions allow the project to maximize energy production during times of peak demand. The project's proximity to transmission lines ensures efficient delivery of its power to nearby markets. This premier wind energy project solidifies Pattern's presence in Texas' renewable energy market.

Pattern's team of scientists, while under previous employment with Babcock & Brown, led the development and the world's first use of groundbreaking MERLIN SCADA radar technology to protect avian populations at the Gulf Wind project. The system detects approaching birds in real time and can automatically activate safety responses, including the idling of turbines, if needed. This radar adaptive management strategy significantly reduces the project's potential impact on migrating birds and is an example of Pattern's commitment to be a leader in scientific innovation and a good steward of the environment.

Gulf Wind started operations in 2009 and is constructed on land owned by the Kenedy Memorial Foundation. Pattern makes quarterly royalty payments to the Foundation, which enables it to expand its charitable work in South Texas.