The initial phase of wind development is expected to be approximately 200MW and will be completed by late 2011 or 2012, depending on the pace of new transmission construction in western Kansas.
Bill Moore, president and CEO of Westar, said: “This expansion of our commitment to clean wind energy is another example of our environmental stewardship. Our deal with Infinity allows us flexibility to time the ultimate construction of the wind farm for the advantage of our customers and investors.”
Matt Riley, CEO of Infinity Wind Power, said: “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 project owner and operator. 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.”
Westar owns central plains wind farm, a 99MW facility near Leoti, Kansas. The company has a 100MW share of the flat ridge wind farm, near Nashville, Kansas. Westar purchases 96MW of wind power from the Meridian way wind farm near Concordia, Kansas.
