Cost Estimates for Mid to Larges Scale Wind Energy Projects
An explanation on the estimates
It is important to be aware that the costs contained in the project expense examples contained below will vary greatly based on numerous factors. Some of these variables include the site, number of turbines, pre-construction work, engineering fees, and interconnection. Also, certain costs contained in the project expense example can fluctuate on a monthly basis and depending on the time of year a project is to begin. We obtained the cost information from our market research which involved calling and speaking with many manufacturers, developers, construction companies, permitting agencies, and industry experts. In areas where it was difficult to get particular cost information we relied on Community Wind: An Oregon Guidebook (2005)[1]. The assumptions based on the Energy Trust of Oregon example were adjusted to account for inflation and project size
This document was created to provide an example of what a project may potentially cost. It is meant to provide the reader with a better understanding of the various elements involved in the process of constructing a wind farm with multiple turbines or erecting a single turbine.
The example projects include:
· 100kW – Northwind turbine
· 600kW – EnerTech E48 turbine
· 10.5MW – five 2.1MW Vestas turbines
Although the expense models were calculated based on estimates received from the turbine manufacturers listed above the REC does not endorse these companies and we strongly recommend comparing turbines from multiple manufacturers.
Click here for a copy of the example projects in PDF format.
[1] Andre, Don; Grove, Jennifer; Grossman Moynihan, Leslie; Peterson, Sarah; and Raker, Jessica Community Wind: An Oregon Guidebook, Energy Trust of Oregon and Northwest Sustainable Energy for Economic Development, 2005.