USA - Vectren to add wind energy to generation portfolio

Evansville, Ind.-based Vectren Energy Delivery has received approval from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) to add 30 MW of wind energy from an Indiana wind farm to its generation portfolio.

The wind farm, which is currently under construction in Benton County, Ind., is owned and operated by an independent power producer and is expected to be completed by summer 2008.

The company is also seeking IURC approval to offer a green power program through which customers will be able to purchase renewable energy for their homes or businesses.

Likewise, the company has filed to create a nonprofit agency, the Green Power Community Trust, whose purpose will be to raise money and awareness for renewable energy projects in southwestern Indiana. Customers will be able to contribute to this nonprofit via their Vectren bill. Both initiatives are pending regulatory approval.

"The wind purchase agreement will benefit Vectren's electricity customers and the environment as Indiana continues to address the need for additional power," says Joan Soller, electric director for the Indiana office of utility consumer counselor.