IDWGP Iowa Distributed Wind Generation Project   Imagine a farm in Iowa that produces electricity as its main crop. A wind farm that converts the power of the wind into a clean, dependable and renewable source of energy. A consortium of Iowa utilities is committed to making this image a reality by pioneering an effort to bring a cleaner, more environmentally friendly power source to its customers. We know that renewable energy will be an integral part of our energy mix in the next century. By investing in this cleaner source of power now, we are securing a healthier environment for our future. History Planning for the wind farm project began in June 1997 with an announcement from the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) that a $2.8 Million agreement had been reached with Cedar Falls Utilities, which had acted as the agent for a consortium of seven municipal utilities known as the Iowa Distributed Wind Generation Project (IWDGP).

Cedar Falls Utilities, Algona Municipal Utilities, City of Estherville, City of Westfield, Ellsworth Municipal Electric, Fonda Municipal Electric, and Montezuma Municipal Light and Power formed the IDWGP. This consortium of municipal utilities was the first of its kind. The IDWGP is a result of the member utilities' common belief that renewable resources are an important part of a diverse mix of electric generation resources. The IDWGP is an example of a proactive approach to renewable energy resources before it becomes mandated by law.

The Iowa Distributed Wind Generation Project's mission is to work together to improve the environment by reducing the amount of air pollutants associated with fossil fuel-generated electricity, while sharing this abundant energy source.

Project Overview

The wind farm is located south east of Algona, Iowa. Wind speeds of over 9 mph are required to generate electricity. The Algona site averages 16.5 mph. The wind farm project is home to three Zond Z-750 wind turbines mounted on 165 foot towers. In 1997, these were the largest commercial turbines manufactured in the United States. The wind turbines employ variable speed and variable pitch technology to take best advantage of winds common to the Midwest. The three turbines combined are capable of producing a total of 2,250 Kilowatts (kW).

Power from this project is currently purchased by Algona Municipal Utilities and used by its consumer/owners on the AMU electric distribution system.  The wind farm began producing electricity in October of 1998.

Cedar Falls Utilities is responsible for accounting and financial reports.  Allgona Municipal Utilities is responsible for the operations and maintenance of the wind farm.

Funding 

The IDWGP partners, the Electric Power Research Institute and the U.S. Department of Energy supported funding for this project.