wiredInUSA June 2017

Power switch

The Block Island Power Company has shut down its diesel generators and transferred the island’s electrical grid to wind power, generated by Deepwater Wind. The power company described the transfer as “the final step” in the process. Wind power is expected to save Block Island’s 2,000 electricity customers about $30 per bill, according to Block Island power company president Jeffery Wright.

“Our customers will realize an immediate cost savings in their monthly bills,” Wright said. The cost of Deepwater Wind’s five turbines, around $300 million, will be repaid by Rhode Island ratepayers over the next 20 years. About one-sixth of the power generated by the turbines is used by Block Island, with the rest going to the mainland.

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wiredInUSA - June 2017