LCRA to Purchase More Wind Energy

The Lower Colorado River Authority is increasing the amount of renewable energy available to its wholesale power customers with a new agreement for wind power.

LCRA has signed a purchase power agreement with Buckthorn Wind Project LLC for wind energy, capacity and renewable energy credits. The project, developed by Infinity Wind Power and located in Erath County, will produce an estimated 96.6 megawatts of energy in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas’ northern area.

“LCRA has long been a leader in making renewable energy available to our customers,” said Phil Wilson, LCRA general manager. “Since its beginning in the 1930s, LCRA has offered renewable energy by using the waters of the Colorado River to generate hydroelectric power. In 1995, LCRA played a key role in developing the first wind power project in Texas, and the addition of the wind from Buckthorn reinforces the importance of renewables in our power portfolio.”

The wind energy agreement will add to LCRA’s diverse energy portfolio made up of wind, coal, natural gas and water to provide its wholesale electric customers with reliable, cost-effective electric power. LCRA already purchases wind capacity from providers in West Texas and near the Texas Gulf Coast.

Matt Riley, CEO of Infinity Wind Power, said, “Infinity Wind Power is pleased to provide this low-cost energy resource to LCRA. LCRA is a leader in renewable energy, and we’re delighted to team with them on the Buckthorn Wind Project.”

LCRA chose the Buckthorn Wind Project after evaluating 27 proposals from across the state. The project is expected to begin generating power for customers in fall 2016.