GE to Deliver 1GW Western Spirit in New Mexico

GE Renewable Energy has won a 1050MW turbine order for Pattern Energy’s Western Spirit wind farm complex in the US state of New Mexico.

The deal is for 377 machines ranging from 2.3MW to 2.8MW with various tower heights, as well as a 10-year service agreement.

Deliveries have already started with commercial operation planned before the end of 2021, GE said.

GE Renewable Energy onshore Americas chief executive Tim White said: “GE Renewable Energy is delighted to work with Pattern Energy on the Western Spirit wind project, and continue our strong relationship.

“GE’s 2MW platform is extremely well suited to the region, with 98%+ availability to help ensure the reliability of sustainable, affordable, renewable energy delivery to the region.

“We are proud to be a part of helping New Mexico work toward its renewable energy goals.”

Pattern Energy chief executive Mike Garland said: “Our turbine order with GE Renewable Energy is the next step in building one of the largest wind power facilities in New Mexico, helping the state to become a major renewable energy producer.

“Western Spirit Wind and the Western Spirit transmission line will bring more than a thousand construction jobs to New Mexico and billions of dollars in economic benefit, while creating a significant new source of clean power.”

GE Energy Consulting provided a range of power system and equipment studies to Pattern Energy supporting the new transmission line, substations, series capacitor bank and wind farm.

These studies are used to evaluate, size and specify the transmission and power equipment and ensure proper operation of the overall system once installed, GE said.

GE Energy Financial Services underwrote and will provide a portion of the tax equity to the project.

GE Energy Financial Services global head of renewable energy Gaurav Raniwala said: “Working with Pattern Energy on Western Spirit Wind demonstrates that GE can bring comprehensive solutions, including best-in-class wind turbine technology and financial services expertise, which enable customer success and timely closing of significant US wind projects.”