The Oregon Department of Energy has recommended regulators approve the 500MW Wheatridge wind project in the northern part of the state.
The Energy Facility Siting Council is reviewing a draft proposed order for a site certificate.
US developer Swaggart Wind Power plans to build up to 292 turbines divided into two areas, Wheatridge West and Wheatridge East, which will link up via an up to 35-mile 230kV intra-connection transmission line, according to regulatory filings.
Swaggart is expected to employ turbines ranging from 1.7MW to 2.5MW.
The proponent anticipates constructing the project in phases to satisfy incremental market demand and serve power to different customers and possibly different interconnections.
Two to three substations are planned. The developer expects the project will connect to the Bonneville Power Administration transmission system via 230kV transmission lines.
Swaggart had requested a six-year window in which to start construction, as the project is dependent on BPA’s expansion timeline, however regulators propose to grant a three-year start date.
The site boundary, including the intra-connection, spans about 13,000 acres of private property in Morrow and Umatilla counties.
The Siting Council is holding a public hearing 19 May and will accept written comments through 6 June 2016.
Swaggart is a joint venture between local development company Leprechaun Holdings and three investment funds managed by MAP Royalty, Inc, a Delaware limited partnership.
Image: the Oregon portfolio includes Shepherds Flat (Blattner)
