Westar Energy, Inc. has acquired development rights for a new wind energy farm in Kansas. Westar has reached an agreement with Infinity Wind Power to develop the Ironwood site near Spearville for up to 500 megawatts (MW) of wind energy. The initial phase of wind development is expected to be approximately 200 MW and will be completed by late 2011 or 2012, depending on the pace of new transmission construction in western Kansas.

In 2009, Westar Energy, already one of the top utilities in the nation for renewable energy per customer, issued a request for proposals for up to an additional 500 MW of renewable energy resources. The company reviewed 35 proposals. After much research, and given changing legislative and economic conditions, Westar opted to obtain rights from Infinity Wind to develop the Ironwood site to position itself to add additional renewable generation quickly once market conditions and transmission availability become more favorable for its customers.

"Kansas is a leader in renewable energy because of great corporate citizens like Westar Energy. As we work to get the economy back on track, the new jobs and new opportunities found in renewable energy will help to move us forward," said Kansas Governor Mark Parkinson.

"This expansion of our commitment to clean wind energy is another example of our environmental stewardship," said Bill Moore, Westar president and CEO. "Our deal with Infinity allows us flexibility to time the ultimate construction of the wind farm for the advantage of our customers and investors."

"This announcement is the culmination of the efforts of many people over the past year to secure one of the most attractive wind development sites in Kansas for the benefit of our customers," said Greg Greenwood, vice president, generation construction. The development agreement with Infinity is structured as an asset purchase and includes contracts with landowners currently covering 18,603 acres as well as other development-related assets. As part of the agreement, Infinity will provide future development services to further prepare the site for construction of the wind farm.

"Collaboration with Westar on the Ironwood project confirms our commitment to the landowners of Ford and Hodgeman Counties to secure a relationship with the ideal long-term project owner and operator," said Matt Riley, Infinity Wind Power CEO. "Westar's commitment to renewable energy development and dedication to high voltage transmission line construction precisely align with Infinity's development goals. We are excited to work with the Westar team to bring the economic benefits of wind energy development to this community."

Tags: Westar Energy