The long and complicated attempt by the Drumheller Institution to provide a portion of its own wind power came to an end last week as the windmill that towered over the facility was taken down.
The experiment that began in 2009, with the lofty expectation the turbine would generate about 20 per cent of its power need at the site. From the get-go, it was plagued with problems. In May 2010, it was delayed in commissioning due to concerns over brake linings.
In October 2012, there were issues with the batteries and inverter. To further complicate matters, Lorax, the US contractor that won the bidding process, dissolved before the project was commissioned.
For many years the windmill sat idle.
Last week contractors dismantled the installation.
According to Corrections Service Canada, where cost-effective, salvageable parts from the Drumheller wind turbine that are in good working condition will be shipped to the Dorchester Penitentiary in New Brunswick to be used as spare parts for Dorchester Penitentiary wind turbine. These parts include mechanical and electrical equipment.
Other structural components that have a good recycling potential, such as the metal tower, will be disposed of accordingly. The fiberglass blades and the nacelle of the turbine are not recyclable and will be disposed of as per Federal guidelines on the disposal of assets.
There may be other projects in the future to help the institution lessen its environmental footprint.
“Drumheller Institution is currently conducting an Energy Performance Contract (EPC) through Public Services and Procurement Canada. As part of this process, an Energy Service Company (ESCO) has been hired to identify and implement selected greenhouse gas reduction measures for this facility,” states a release. “Different options are currently under evaluation, such as a limited solar array, the purchase of clean electricity generated from renewable sources, or a combination of these measures.”
