Wind Generated Power

In response to customer interest in wind-generated electricity, Wild Rice Electric's power supplier, Minnkota Power Cooperative, and the Northern Municipal Power Agency (NMPA) developed the Infinity Wind Energy program for the associated cooperatives and municipals.

Presently, two 900-kilowatt, commercial-scale wind turbines are producing wind energy for customers enrolled in the program. One turbine is located six miles east of Valley City, ND, along Interstate 94 and the other three miles east of Petersburg, ND, along US Highway 2.

The construction of the turbines had a positive impact on the regional economy. The tubular tower sections were manufactured by DMI Industries of West Fargo, ND. The fiberglass blades were provided by LM Glasfiber of Grand Forks, ND.  Wanzek Construction of Fargo, ND, was the onsite contractor.

What is Infinity Wind Energy?

Infinity Wind Energy is a voluntary program that offers electric customers the option of purchasing specific amounts of wind-generated electricity.

Why is this program being offered?

A number of customers have expressed an interest in wind energy and, even more importantly, have promised to pay the extra cost required to produce it.

How does this program affect customers who do not subscribe?

Wild Rice Electric believes it is important to offer wind energy to those customers who are interested in it.  Only those customers who enroll in the program are paying for the turbine projects through the 50¢ per 100 kWh block wind energy premium. As a result, the Infinity Wind Energy program is self-supporting.

How will the wind energy be delivered to my home, farm, school or business?

Electricity generated by the wind turbines flows into the Minnkota/NMPA joint transmission system, which along with Wild Rice Electric's distribution system, delivers electricity supplied by the wind and other sources to your meter.

Customers who enroll in the program can be assured that their commitment has contributed to the development of the wind turbines.

Why does wind power cost more?

The main reason for the higher cost of wind energy is that wind turbines produce less energy per dollar of investment compared to other electric generation facilities, such as the region's lignite-fired power plants.

Can wind turbines supply all of our electric energy?

No. Due to the intermittent nature of the wind, there will always be a need for the reliable electricity generated from another readily available energy resource - lignite coal.