Bluff Point Wind Energy Center commissioned in Indiana

NextEra Energy Resources recently commissioned a wind energy center in Portland, Indiana, consisting of 57 GE wind turbines with the capacity to generate nearly 120 megawatts of electricity.

Officials from NextEra Energy Resources, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy and American Electric Power (AEP), were joined by local and state leaders to mark the opening of the Bluff Point Wind Energy Center in a ceremony held on Dec. 7.

“On behalf of Gov. (Eric) Holcomb, I am very pleased to help commission this exciting project that represents a $200 million investment in our state,” Indiana Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch said. “It has created good jobs for Hoosiers and an economic uplift for the region, as well as low-cost, clean energy, which is a product we can all be proud of.”

NextEra Energy Resources oversaw the project’s construction. The company will own and manage the wind energy center, which will supply electricity to customers of AEP affiliate Appalachian Power.

“AEP and Appalachian Power are pleased to partner with NextEra Energy Resources on this beneficial project that helps modernize and diversify the power generation fleet and provides low-cost, clean energy to customers,” Marc Lewis, the vice president of regulatory and external affairs for Indiana-Michigan power at AEP, said.

The Bluff Point Wind Energy Center was undertaken as part of a larger initiative by Appalachian Power to diversify its energy portfolio with wind, solar, hydropower, energy efficiency and demand-side management. Appalachian Power currently serves approximately 1 million customers.

“This is our company’s first project in Indiana and we look forward to making more investments here,” John DiDonato, the vice president of renewable development and origination for NextEra Energy Resources, said. “We are grateful for our partnership with AEP, and for the tremendous support this project has received from the governor’s office and of course the people of Jay and Randolph counties, who stand to benefit from it for years to come.”

Project construction supported approximately 200 jobs in Jay and Randolph counties, and five full-time employees were added when the facility became fully operational in October. The Bluff Point Wind Energy Center is projected to generate $30 million in nex tax revenue over 30 years, and local landowners will receive $21 million in payments.

“We are very proud to host the Bluff Point Wind Energy Center right here in Jay County,” said Jeanne Houchins, a member of the Jay County Council, said. “This project has already created a great deal of enthusiasm and positive economic activity in our community. The extra tax revenue it generates will go a long way to help our county enhance our schools, roads and essential services.”