DTE Energy has announced the sites for three wind farms in Michigan’s Thumb, a $225 million investment towards the expansion of its renewable energy resources.
The Minden, Sigel and McKinley wind farms – which together will generate approximately 110 MW of electricity – will be sited on nearly 15,000 acres in Bloomfield, Sigel and McKinley townships in Huron County, and Minden and Delaware townships in Sanilac County.
"This is a great opportunity to bring more renewable energy to our service area, and also a way to grow the renewable energy industry in Michigan," said Trevor Lauer, vice president, Marketing & Renewables. "These wind farms will add to the employment base, the tax base and provide many other economic development opportunities. Statistics show that nearly five jobs are created for every megawatt of installed wind capacity."
The sites will require approximately 50 wind turbines, and the company is currently reviewing bids from turbine manufacturers.
The wind farm development is part of DTE Energy's plan to meet Michigan's renewable energy goals. DTE Energy expects to add about 1,200 MW of renewable power, or about 10 percent of its power by 2015. The company plans to own facilities to supply up to half of that power and contract with third-party producers for the remainder.
DTE Energy expects the majority of its renewable energy to come from wind resources, but it also has two solar energy pilot programs that could produce approximately 20 MW.
