British oil and gas giant BP Plc has successfully completed a USD 100 million technology upgrade at its 300-MW Fowler Ridge 1 wind farm in Indiana. The initiative is poised to bolster the plant's production capacity, leading to a notable increase in its average annual electricity output.
BP announced on Monday that the upgraded wind farm is expected to generate an average of 314,000 kWh annually, a surge facilitated by the installation of cutting-edge technology. This increased output is anticipated to provide electricity equivalent to the consumption needs of approximately 27,000 homes each year.
The comprehensive project involved the upgrading of 40 Vestas turbines within the 162-turbine complex. Key modifications included the installation of 120 individual blades and 40 new nacelles. BP's calculations indicate that the new hardware will enable the Fowler Ridge 1 park to produce up to 40% more electricity, thanks to advancements allowing generation at lower wind speeds.
An environmentally conscious aspect of the initiative involves the recycling of decommissioned blades. These blades will undergo a process of recycling, shredding, and blending with raw materials to create cement products, aligning with BP's commitment to sustainable practices.
Fowler Ridge 1 is part of a larger complex, including the Fowler Ridge 2 and 3 wind parks. All three parks are operated by BP, with the British group holding sole ownership of Fowler Ridge 1 and 3.
