Two wind energy companies contacted and made presentations to the Bethlehem Authority regarding the value of its property for potential wind energy projects.
Delsea Energy from New Jersey and Iberdrola USA from Portland Oregon, with its local office in Malvern, Pennsylvania are both under consideration.
In April of this year, Spanish power utility Iberdrola (IBE.MC) has taken on its Energy East unit's obligations as issuer of $1.3 billion in US domestic bonds.
"This move puts the holders of the subsidiary's bonds and those of Iberdrola's bonds on an equal footing," a spokesman for the Spanish utility said.which had previously acquired UK utility Scottish Power in 2007.
Iberdrola bought Energy East, which generates and distributes power across the State of New York, in the third quarter of 2008.
The Authority is considering expanding it's wind generating capacity for its future energy needs on its extensive landholdings in the Pocono Mountians. Wind farms are being considered in Tunkhannock Township and on the Penn Forst Ridge on properties owned by the Authority.
The sites, which have consistent wind are also used by mirgating raptors, which potentially puts the project in conflict with conservationists.
The Board felt it needed guidance in evaluating these projects. Mr. Repasch made contact with Broadlands
Financial Group from the Villanova area, a firm very adept at and involved in renewable energy projects.
Last month, their proposal for services was approved which led to the contract being presented today for
execution.
The Authority’s Solicitor reviewed the original contract and the suggested changes were
agreed to by Broadlands’ attorney. In summary, the contract is for Broadlands to evaluate two potential
wind energy development proposals to the Authority (Delsea and Iberdrola) to determine which developer
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OCTOBER 8, 2009 4 of 10 would be best suited to construct and operate a wind energy farm on Authority property at a cost of $6,000 per developer, or $12,000 in total.
Mr. Gower queried Broadlands hourly rate for other work if the Authority decides to pursue a wind project.
Mr. Repasch responded it was provided initially and from what he recalls it wasn’t out of line. One of
Broadlands partners, Joseph Lawn, had to cancel being here today; however, he and an engineer from
his firm will have kick-off meeting to develop a time table on the evaluation process. If any Board
member would like to participate, let him know.
Chairman Jobes reiterated this is a long process, approximately five years from start to finish. This is the
first step to determine if the next step is feasible. There is a lot of analysis and evaluation needed,
environmentally and financially. Green power is receiving a lot of focus and attention. This Board thinks
there is some potential in exploring it, as do the developers who approached us.
Mr. Gower moved to approve the consulting contract with Broadlands Financial Group and to authorize
the Chairman and Secretary to execute the contract. Mr. Tallarico seconded. Motion passed
unanimously.
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