The Blackwell Economic Development Authority (BEDA) and EDF Renewable Energy (EDF RE) are pleased to announce the completion of the Rock Falls Wind Project, located in Kay and Grant Counties, northwest of Blackwell, Oklahoma.
The 154-megawatt project consists of Siemens wind turbines manufactured in their Iowa-based facilities. The project has created more than 150 jobs since the start of construction, along with millions of dollars injected into the local economies.
EDF RE will operate the 154-megawatt project under a long-term lease agreement with BEDA, the owner of the project. The project was financed by bonds issued by the BEDA. Upon commencement of commercial operations, on December 8, 120 megawatts of the 154 megawatts of renewable energy produced will provide Kimberly-Clark with a significant portion of the electricity needs of its North American manufacturing operations. Kimberly-Clark joins EDF RE’s growing North America portfolio of corporate purchasers including Google, Microsoft, Salesforce, Proctor & Gamble, Walmart, and Yahoo.
BEDA is a public trust, whose purpose is to promote, stimulate, encourage, and finance the growth and development of the economy of Blackwell and the surrounding area. This project adds to the current portifilo of business assets including commercial buildings, land, and the local rail services all enhancing investments and job creation in our region. EDF Renewable Energy, a subsidiary of EDF Energies Nouvelles, based in France, is a leading U.S. independent power producer boasting over 30 years of experience in the power industry.
“The Blackwell Economic Development Authority has been working for nearly a year, and with EDF RE for several months, in bringing this model to fruition. The agreement with EDF RE will assist in BEDA's mission to invest in Blackwell and the surrounding area’s economy.