The sun was shining bright, as landowners, community members, Suncor Energy representatives, and Teck Resources Ltd. representatives all gathered at the Dalum Community Hall on Tuesday June 12, for the official grand opening of the Wintering Hills Wind Power Project.
“Our vision is to be a sustainable energy company and windpower is part of the future of energy in Canada,” said Boris Jackman, executive vice president of refining and marketing of Suncor Energy.
The project started back in July of 2010, and the turbines themselves were installed in December of 2011.
“Our biggest hurdle was in the fall of 2010. There was an abundance of rain and that really slowed down construction,” said Kalja Vainstein, construction manager for Suncor Energy.
However, the wind farm is now a reality.
Over 15,000 acres, the 55 wind turbines will produce 88 megawatts, enough to power 35,000 homes.
Each turbine stands 80 metres tall, about 262 feet, and each blade is 40 metres long, about 120 feet.
Wintering Hills is the largest wind project for Suncor to date.
“When we invest in wind power, we invest in people and the surrounding community,” said Jackman.
