Siemens will manufacture, install and commission its 2.3-MW Mk II wind turbines for FPL Energy. Delivery of the wind turbines will begin in 2006 and support the planned expansion of wind-driven electricity generation projects at FPL Energy.
"This agreement with FPL Energy is important because it is the first wind power contract for our growing wind power business in the Americas region since Siemens acquired Bonus Energy last Dec.," said Randy Zwirn, member, Siemens Power Generation Executive Management and president and CEO, Siemens Power Generation, Inc.
"The wind power business, especially in the U.S. and Canada, is more favorable now than it was in the past," added Zwirn. "With the increased focus on clean renewable energy, as well as high natural gas prices and volatility, wind power is an increasingly attractive alternative. In addition, the recently passed Federal Energy Policy Act includes provisions for subsidies and tax credits for the development of renewable energy, which enhances the attractiveness for our customers."
"Wind projects continue to be an important part of the growth strategy for FPL Energy," said Jim Robo, president of FPL Energy. "The recent passage of the Energy Policy Act that contains a two-year extension of the wind production tax credit enables us to execute, without interruption, our wind development program. As the leading U.S. wind power company, it is important for FPL Energy to secure a reliable and economic source of wind turbines for use in projects we are developing Wednesday and into the future. This new turbine agreement with Siemens provides us with a platform to deploy turbines early next year," said Robo.