Chatham-Kent, Ontario: Samsung Renewable Energy Inc. and Pattern Energy Group LP announced April 9 that North Kent Wind, a 100 megawatt wind power facility located in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, had completed construction and become fully operational.
“North Kent Wind marks our sixth operational wind power facility in Ontario, totaling more than one gigawatt of capacity, enough to power more than 400,000 homes each year,” said Mike Garland, President and CEO of Pattern Development. “North Kent Wind was built entirely by Ontario workers and is generating substantial economic benefits in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent by injecting more than $40 million in direct spending into the local economy over the next 20 years.”
The project uses 34 Siemens Gamesa 3.2 MW wind turbines with towers and blades that were made in Ontario. Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy counts more than 1,100 active wind turbines in Canada, with a total nameplate capacity of 2,500 MW.
Samsung and Pattern Development, as part of a commitment to make a positive impact in project area communities, are providing $4 million to the Municipality of Chatham-Kent as a community benefit contribution to be used at the sole discretion of Municipal Council.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent also holds a 15% equity interest in North Kent Wind through its affiliate Entegrus Renewable Energy Inc. Bkejwanong First Nation, also known as Walpole Island First Nation, also holds a 15% equity interest in North Kent Wind.