New wind farm announced: Wind energy still strong
Posted: 01.19.2012 at 3:12 PM

AMARILLO, TEXAS -- The Spinning Spur Wind Farm about 30 miles west of Amarillo has been sold to the Austin based Cielo wind power company and En-X-Co of France for about $322 million.

According to Cielo's website, the 28,000+ acres west of Vega will have a total of 70 turbines, with each one producing enough energy to power about 700 homes.

Executive Director of the Wind Coalition, Paul Sadler says wind power may not be as prominent as in the last few years, but he still expects steady growth for years to come.

"We need all the elements of energy..it has a very vital role in that mixture. I think it will continue to grow and I think it will be strong and once we complete the KRESS transmission (lines) buildup, we'll continue to see the growth," said Sadler. "Will we see it grow like we did back in 2007-2008?, No. But during the next 5 years, once the KRESS lines are completed, 2013, I think we'll fill them up."

Sadler, who recently announced he's seeking the democratic nomination for Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison's seat was in Amarillo on Thursday as the guest speaker at First Bank Southwest's Panhandle Economic Series luncheon.