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As one of Canada’s largest wind projects, the 270MW K2 Wind Power Facility (K2 Wind) reached commercial operation on May 29, 2015. The project comprised of 140 Siemens 2.3MW wind turbines and operates under a 20-year PPA with the Independent Electricity System Operator.
K2 Wind is owned and operated by Capital Power Corporation and Capital Power LP (collectively, "Capital Power"), Samsung Renewable Energy Inc. (Samsung), and Pattern Energy Group LP (collectively referred to as "the partners"). Pattern Energy Group Inc. (Pattern Energy) has agreed to acquire one third of the project from its affiliate Pattern Energy Group LP.
"Along with Samsung and Capital Power, we are proud to develop one of the largest wind facilities in Canada, which was built using local workers and local materials, including turbine blades and towers manufactured in Ontario," said Mike Garland, CEO of Pattern Energy. "K2 Wind is the result of Ontario's commitment to green energy, providing the province with a strong new addition to its renewable energy fleet."
In efforts to contribute to the community, the partners focused on hiring locally. While in construction, K2 Wind was one of the largest infrastructure projects in Ontario. During its 18-month construction period, the project averaged over 300 workers on site. At peak construction, more than 500 workers were employed by the project. Project components were also manufactured in Ontario. K2 Wind expects to have approximately 20 full-time operations and maintenance employees, along with an additional 10 seasonal positions.
K2 Wind has also created a Community Benefits Fund Agreement with the Township of ACW to deliver approximately $15 million in funding for community initiatives over the next 20 years and to support local residents living near the facility through lease agreements and other benefits.
(Photo: Pattern Energy's St. Joseph Wind Farm in Manitoba Canada)