Pattern Energy to develop Puerto Rico's 'largest' wind energy project

SNL Energy – by Corina Rivera, June 16, 2010

Pattern Energy Group LP is developing what could be Puerto Rico's largest wind energy project.

Pattern Energy said June 15 that its subsidiary Pattern Santa Isabel LLC has entered into a 20-year power purchase and operating agreement with the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority for the sale of 75 MW produced at the Pattern Santa Isabel Wind Project, a wind energy generation facility being developed by Pattern in the municipality of Santa Isabel that would be the largest wind energy project on the island.

The project is expected to begin producing electricity equivalent to the power needs of up to 25,000 homes in late 2011, the company said.

Collie Powell, senior developer with Pattern Energy, said June 15 that the number of turbines in the project depends on the type turbine ultimately chosen, adding that the project could range from 35 to 60 turbines.

The company has not filed any documents yet, Powell said. "We're just beginning the permitting process," he said, adding that the company is beginning public outreach.

"The Pattern Santa Isabel Wind Project will be a premier project that will harness the winds on the Southern side of Puerto Rico, which are consistent during the peak hours of energy consumption, making them a unique, local resource for the people of Puerto Rico," Pattern Energy CEO Mike Garland said in a statement.

"Puerto Rico is fully committed to the development of renewable energy projects as part of our Administration's overall energy reform initiative," Puerto Rico Gov. Luis Fortuño said in the statement. "We must diversify our sources of energy – away from our traditional dependence on crude oil – lower energy costs to consumers and businesses and protect the environment, all at the same time. A viable wind energy project would be a significant piece in our overall energy strategy."

The utility's generating capacity, according to its website, totals 5,864 MW, of which more than two-thirds is fueled by petroleum. It serves about 1.4 million customers across the entire island of Puerto Rico.

Santa Isabel Mayor Enrique Questell also voiced support for the project, which, according to Pattern Energy, will create a significant number of jobs during construction, as well as a number of ongoing permanent positions once operational. Pattern Energy is a subsidiary of Riverstone Holdings LLC.