Goldwind Acquires Montana's Musselshell Wind Project from Volkswind

China's Goldwind USA (HKSE: 2208.HK) has acquired the 20 MW Musselshell Wind Project in Shawmut, Montana from Volkswind USA in an arrangement labeled the "ideal fit."

What makes the arrangement ideal, according to Volkswind USA president Jeff Wagner, is the arrangement of wind turbine technology, namely Goldwind's permanent magnetic drive and grid-friendly infrastructure. “Goldwind’s gearless technology is relatively unique in the US market; its megawatt size, efficiency and reliability perfectly matches the requirements of the wind farm,” said Wagner.

Goldwind is the second largest wind turbine manufacturer in China and the fourth overall globally. It also boasts significant financing solutions, which make it an attractive business solution for many wind projects. 

Tim Rosenzweig, CEO of Goldwind USA believes the deal further demonstrates Goldwind’s diverse financing capabilities in the US market.  “This project marks Goldwind’s third acquisition in the United States accompanied by our project in Pipestone, Minnesota and our 109.5 MW Shady Oaks project in Lee County, Illinois,” said Rosenzweig. 

In the U.S., Goldwind turbines are now in use, or designated to be in use in Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, Ohio, and Minnesota -- and now Montana. 

All necessary permits for construction, secured power purchase, and interconnection agreements with NorthWestern Energy have been obtained and approved, and construction on the two 10 MW projects is expected to be underway as early as the third quarter of 2012.