Wolverine Power Cooperative, a not-for profit electric coop providing wholesale electric power to six electric coops throughout Michigan, has announced plans to develop a new natural gas-fueled electric generating facility. The Alpine Power Plant will be built in Elmira Township, Otsego County, west of Gaylord.
After nearly two years, Wolverine chose the Elmira Township site and its nearly 170-acres, in part, due to the convergence of existing interstate natural gas pipelines and high-voltage electric transmission lines on the property.
“Wolverine is excited about moving forward with a new natural gas peaking plant. Our Alpine Power Plant will provide a nice balance to Wolverine’s existing power supply portfolio, while at the same time increasing electrical reliability in Northern Michigan and complementing the ever increasing amount of renewable energy in Michigan,” said Ken Bradstreet, Wolverine spokesperson.
Within the next month, Wolverine will present its proposal to the Elmira Township Planning Commission and the Otsego County Planning Commission, as well as submit an application for an air quality permit with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.
The project is expected to exceed $100 million and provide significant tax revenues to several local units of government.
“The Alpine Power Plant will provide a major boost to the local economy,” Bradstreet said. “In addition, the plant will be built with existing funds and have little, if any, rate impact on Wolverine’s member-cooperatives and the member consumers they serve throughout rural Michigan.”
Source: Fierceenergy.com