February 8, 2019
Michigan

More turbines coming to Tuscola in 2019

By Mary Drier, for the Tribune | Huron Daily Tribune | February 7, 2019 | www.michigansthumb.com

COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP – More wind turbines are coming to northern Tuscola County later this year.

Consumers Energy sent a newsletter to Columbia Township residents notifying them construction of Phase III of Cross Winds Energy Park will start soon.

There will be 33 new turbines built as part of the Cross Winds Energy Park’s Phase III in the township.

“This will help us meet our company goal of generating more than 40 percent of our electricity from renewable sources by 2040,” said Lynn Wilson, a manager with Consumers Energy.

This year’s construction is expected to begin in the spring. It’s anticipated to be completed this fall, which is ahead of schedule.

The Michigan Public Service Commission approved the Jackson-based utility’s proposal to begin work in 2019 instead of 2022 on Cross Winds Energy Park III. In 2016, the commission approved Cosumers plan to build 19 wind turbine for its Cross Winds Energy Park II and also approved the option to build 33 more turbines for the future Cross Winds Energy Park III.

When completed, the entire Phase III project is expected to cost about $150 million.

“We appreciate the cooperation we’ve received from Akron and Columbia townships, the landowners, residents, the county, the schools, and local business community,” Wilson said. “They have been integral in making this a highly successful project.”

Cross Winds’ first phase was constructed in Columbia and Akron townships. It was completed in 2014, and Phase II was completed in 2018.

Michigan, especially the Thumb, is a prime location for wind development, according to a study done by the Michigan Wind Energy Resource Zone Board in 2008. The study ranked Michigan 14th in the U.S. for wind energy potential.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2019/02/08/more-turbines-coming-to-tuscola-in-2019/