US developer Constellation is repowering its Criterion wind project (pictured) in Oakland, Maryland, extending the life of the facility for 20 years.
Construction at the Criterion facility is underway with the installation of new, high-efficiency rotors, turbine blades and generators at the 28-unit site.
The older turbine blades and equipment will be recycled and the power generated at the site will continue to be sold to Old Dominion Electric Cooperative (ODEC).
The project is expected to be completed before year end.
The move is part of US$350m effort to increase the output and lifespan of the company’s renewable energy portfolio.
Over the course of this fleetwide project, Constellation’s repowering efforts will enable 315MW of its existing carbon-free wind fleet to generate greater output at the same wind conditions.
Constellation operates 27 wind projects that are capable of producing about 1.4GW of electricity.
Constellation president and chief executive Joe Dominguez said: “Constellation leads the nation in carbon-free energy production.
“Our investment strategy will unlock even more clean energy from our existing facilities to help the nation meet its ambitious climate goals.”