November 21, 2017
Virginia

Apex Clean Energy still seeking power buyer for Botetourt Wind Farm

By Leanna Scachetti | WDBJ7 | Nov 20, 2017 | www.wdbj7.com

A Virginia-based company is still planning a project to bring wind energy to southwest Virginia. But it appears the work is moving slower than anticipated.

Last week was the first week construction on the Rocky Forge Wind Farm could have begun.

In July, Apex Clean Energy representatives told the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors that Apex hoped to start building the Rocky Forge Wind Farm by mid-November. The company was told it couldn’t start construction before that date because of bat activity in the area.

But today, representatives confirm they don’t yet have a start date for construction.

Apex also hasn’t yet named a power buyer. Representatives say they’re still looking for the right partner to commercialize the farm.

An spokesperson wrote in an email:

“Rocky Forge hosts a strong wind resource and has created interest from counterparties interested in procuring electricity. We are working to find the right partner to commercialize Rocky Forge and construct it responsibly. We do not have a start date for construction at this time, but we are working steadfastly towards that goal.”

Botetourt County officials tell us their staff is ready to work with Apex as the project moves forward. A spokesperson for county administration wrote in an email:

“The Botetourt County Board of Supervisors and staff are aware that the timeline for the Rocky Forge Wind project has changed and may continue to evolve in the coming months. Staff members are ready to work with Apex Clean Energy whenever the company is prepared to apply for permits and begin construction of the project.”

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2017/11/21/apex-clean-energy-still-seeking-power-buyer-for-botetourt-wind-farm/