Groundbreaking Ceremony for Stetson Wind Expansion Project

When combined with the original Stetson Wind energy project, which achieved commercial operations in January 2009, the expansion will make it an 82.5 MW wind power, renewable energy facility.

Last week, a three-turbine project that will provide power needs for Vinalhaven and North Haven islands was opened. Two other major projects that will feed into the power grid are under construction in western Maine.

State Energy Director John Kerry and Sen. Kevin Raye of Washington County are among the speakers.

WHO: Speakers will include: Senator Kevin Raye, R-Perry;  John Kerry, Director, Maine Office of Energy Independence & Security;  Chris Gardner, Washington County Commissioner; Paul Gaynor, CEO of First Wind; Jack Parker, President of Reed & Reed.

WHERE: Owl Mountain Road, T8 R3 MBPP, near Danforth, ME
Traffic will be directed onto Owl Mountain Road toward the groundbreaking site near the junction of Route 169 and Owl Mountain Road.

WHEN: Monday, November 23, 2009, 1 p.m.
Suggested Arrival Time: 12:45 p.m. to allow for parking.
E-mail jlamontagne@firstwind.com for directions.

Note: Media and guests are welcome to join First Wind, Reed & Reed and others afterward for a light lunch at First Settlers Lodge on Route 1, Weston, ME at about 2 p.m. Directions can be found at www.firstsettlerslodge.com/directions.

Media note: B-Roll footage of the Stetson I project is available upon request.

First Wind is an independent North American wind energy company focused exclusively on the development, ownership and operation of wind energy projects. First Wind is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts.

www.firstwind.com