The installation of wind turbines, featuring 113m rotor and 92.5m hub height, is will begin in June 2014 while commercial operation is scheduled for December 2014.
Under the contract, Siemens Energy will deliver, install and commission the machines as well as provide service for three years.
Blades for turbines will be produced at Siemens’ facility in Fort Madison, Iowa. The nacelle assembly will take place at the facility in Hutchinson.
Siemens Wind Power CEO Dr. Markus Tacke said, "With our innovative 3-MW direct drive turbine we are increasing annual energy output with a larger rotor and a higher tower.
"We greatly value Minnesota Power’s confidence in our technologies and services and are very pleased to partner with them once again as they continue to provide reliable, affordable and sustainable power to their customers."
The addition of 205MW Bison 4 will increase Minnesota Power’s Bison Wind Energy Center’s total output to almost 500MW.
Image: Siemens direct drive wind turbine in 3 MW-class. Photo: Courtesy of Siemens Energy
