EDF and SCE sign power purchase agreement for Patterson Pass wind project

EDF Renewable Energy (EDF) has signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with Southern California Edison (SCE) for the 19.8MW Patterson Pass wind power project under the California Renewable Auction Mechanism competitive procurement programme.

The wind project is located in the Alameda County portion of the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area east of San Francisco.

By developing the project, the older technology will be upgraded with newer one to generate more clean energy using fewer wind turbines.

As part of the development process, approximately 300 Nordtank and Bonus 65kW turbines, which were originally installed in 1985, will be removed.

EDF Wind Business Development director Rick Miller said the project will be equipped with advanced turbine technology to improve efficiency and environmental considerations.

"The modernization of older "legacy" projects is an important component of our overall development portfolio," Miller added.

"Patterson Pass will see a 96% reduction in the number of wind turbines, which demonstrates our ongoing environmental stewardship of the site and surrounding area."

EDF is responsible for developing, owning and operating the wind power project, commercial operation of which would begin in 2015 end.

EDF Renewable Services will continue to operate and maintain the Patterson Pass wind power project.