Alberta’s largest wind-generating energy project, Halkirk Wind, is now ready for operation.

Owned by Capital Power LP and constructed by Renewable Energy Systems Canada (RES Canada), the $346-million, 150-MW project includes 83 V-90 1.8-MW wind turbines and spreads across 15,000 acres (10,000 ha).

The power generated from this wind farm can supply more than 50,000 average homes (i.e. 1000 kWh/month) with renewable energy in the province.

The turbines themselves are assembled in four sections and reach 80 m (262 ft) in height. The three hollow blades, weighing 6.5 tonnes each, are carbon-reinforced fibreglass.

Completed in 14 months, the project employed more than 360 workers. Future wind-energy projects in the province are being developed. The location of Halkirk Wind, located near the Village of Halkirk in east-central Alberta, is ideal for the turbines due to its above-average wind ratings.

“The province has abundant wind resources, and we look forward to working on other projects like Halkirk, which will drive investment and create jobs,” said RES Canada’s Peter Clibbon.

The company is currently working on Ontario’s largest wind farm, the South Kent Wind project located within the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.