Tradewind Energy Inc., a Lenexa-based wind farm developer, recently was named as the 2017 No. 1 utility-scale wind developer by the American Wind Energy Association.
The company’s output was 1,247 megawatts (MW) out of more than 7,000 MW developed by all utility-scale wind projects in the U.S. That accounts for nearly 18 percent of all wind-generated power in 2017.
“Tradewind has established itself as one of the leading wind and solar developers in the nation through its ability to consistently deliver on its commitment to local communities, its customers, and its investors,” said Geoff Coventry, Tradewind’s chief operating officer.
The achievement comes at a time when the wind and solar industry continues to experience rapid growth amid environmental and regulatory threats. Amid negotiations for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 was the potential to do away with the Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit, an investment driver for renewable energy companies through 2020.
READ MORE: Implications of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 for Tradewind Energy
While the tax credit remained unscathed, the same companies will be subject to lower corporate taxes, which create lower depreciation values, potentially driving up energy prices in order to maintain projected revenues.
Despite these threats, Tradewind continues to see demand for renewable energy, allowing it to grow its business.
In 2018, Tradewind will begin construction on 1,130 MW of wind and 150 MW of solar projects. Currently, the company has more than 10,000 MW of wind projects in development and more than 5,200 MW of solar projects in development. The projects span 26 states.
“The investment by American businesses in both wind and solar power has become a major contributor to industry growth, and it confirms the value of these technologies in their ability to provide long-term low, stable energy costs while at the same time moving our nation toward energy sustainability,” said CEO Rob Freeman.
Tradewind also is investing in its people. Boasting a strong company culture within an innovative industry, the company maintains a team of 140 employees between the Lenexa headquarters and field offices.
“We expect the wind and solar industries to continue to drive down the cost of power for Americans while modernizing our nation’s electric generation fleet. Driven by the dedicated and accomplished Tradewind team, we are poised and ready to continue moving through a successful 2018,” Coventry said.
Photo: Located in Kiowa and Washita Counties in Oklahoma, the 74 MW Little Elk wind farm was developed by Tradewind Energy and is now owned and operated by Enel Green Power. (Courtesy Enel Green Power)
