Duke Energy and Austin Energy complete Los Vientos III wind power project

Duke Energy and Austin Energy have completed the 200 MW Los Vientos III wind power project in Rio Grande in Starr County, Texas.

Austin Energy is purchasing the power and associated renewable energy credits from the 200 MW wind farm under a 25-year agreement, increasing the total output purchased from Duke Energy Renewables to more than 500 MW. Austin Energy also will purchase the output of the 200-MW Los Vientos IV wind farm under construction in Starr County, with an expected completion date in 2016.

Los Vientos III is located approximately 100 miles west of Brownsville near Rio Grande City. In addition to Los Vientos IV, Los Vientos V, in the same proximity, is currently under construction.

Vestas supplied 100 V110-2.0 MW turbines for Los Vientos III and will service the project under a three-year operations and maintenance agreement. The company will also provide turbines for Los Vientos IV and V.

Greg Wolf, president of Duke Energy Renewables, stated:

“The Los Vientos III Windpower Project achieving commercial operation represents a significant milestone for Duke Energy Renewables, as we now have more than 2,000 megawatts of renewable energy in production. And, as the third project we’ve completed for Austin Energy, it also signifies a productive and successful partnership as we continue to help this progressive customer grow its renewable portfolio.”

Larry Weis, general manager of Austin Energy, commented:

“The completion of Los Vientos III means that Austin Energy’s wind portfolio has now surpassed 1,000 MW, which is nearly a third of our total generating capacity. We are very excited to reach this major milestone.”

Graham Furlong, Duke Energy Renewables development executive, added:

“The leaders, landowners and people of Starr County have been tremendous partners as we’ve worked together to boost economic development in this community. We appreciate the support of the county, local school districts and the hospital. We’re proud to continue our work with them to bring renewable energy to the area and be a source of landowner income and dependable tax revenue for years to come.”