The Rock Falls wind farm is being built across the Kay and Grant Counties in northern Oklahoma. It features Siemens wind turbines and is expected to start commercial operation by the year end.
The 78% of power generation from the EDF wind project will be used for meeting a part of the electricity requirements of the North American manufacturing operations of Kimberly-Clark.
EDF RE power marketing director Dai Owen said: “The strong U.S. wind market relies in part on America’s corporate sector and companies like Kimberly-Clark, who through the purchase of wind energy demonstrate leadership in the drive for a low-carbon economy.
“Their commitment allowed Rock Falls to proceed, providing an economic boost to the Oklahoma economy, through new construction and operations jobs, expanded tax base, and recurring, long-term income for participating landowners.”
The wind power bought from the Rock Falls wind project is expected to help the personal care corporation to cross its 2022 commitment to cut down greenhouse gas emissions by 20%.
Kimberly-Clark sustainability global head Lisa Morden said: “This agreement will help enable Kimberly-Clark to achieve its greenhouse gas emission reduction goal up to four years ahead of schedule and is a further step in preparing the company for a low-carbon future.
“It also supports Kimberly-Clark’s mission to provide people with essentials for a better life by caring for the environment and communities we serve.”
In another development, Kimberly-Clark has signed a power purchase agreement with Invenergy to buy 125MW or 42% capacity of the latter’s 300MW Santa Rita Wind Energy Center in West Texas.
The Santa Rita wind farm is anticipated to start commercial operation by the second quarter of 2018.
Image: A rotor is lifted into place at Rock Falls wind project. Photo: courtesy of Business Wire.
