Invenergy and GE Renewable Energy announce USA’s largest wind farm

• 6 years ago (2017-07-27)
• David Flin

North America 998 Wind 239

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Invenergy, North America’s largest independent, privately-held renewable energy company, along with GE Renewable Energy, has announced a 2000 MW wind farm that will be the largest in the USA, and the second largest in the world, once operational. The Wind Catcher facility is currently under construction in the Oklahoma panhandle, and will generate electricity from 800 2.5 MW turbines.

The wind facility is part of the $4.5 billion Wind Catcher Energy Connection that also includes an approximately 350-mile dedicated, extra-high voltage power line. American Electric Power (AEP) utility subsidiaries Public Service Co of Oklahoma (PSO) and Southwestern Electric Power Co (SWEPCO) are asking utility regulators in Louisiana, Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma to approve plans to purchase the wind farm from Invenergy upon completion of construction, and to build the power line to serve PSO and SWEPCO’s customers.

Michael Polsky, CEO of Invenergy, said: “Wind Catcher shows American leadership in bringing low-cost clean energy to market at giga scale. This project reflects Invenergy’s innovative spirit and unparalleled execution ability.”

The 2.5 MW turbines are the latest model from GE, designed to enhance siting efficiency, offer high reliability, and allow for higher energy production. GE will also implement its Digital Wind Farm Solutions, providing software to support wind operations, including Asset Performance Management and Operations Optimisation.

The Wind Catcher facility is scheduled to be fully operational in mid-2020. Invenergy is contracted to operate the facility for the first five year.