Together, the turbines are expected to produce enough electricity to meet the needs of 200 homes, and reduce the co-op's use of diesel fuel by about 90,000 gallons each year. Winter storms and colder than usual winter temperatures delayed the construction of the seven new wind turbines, but did not stop KEA crews from continuing work on the project through the coldest part of the winter. Not until warmer spring temperatures have arrived with its additional daylight has there been a safe window for raising the turbines. Raising the turbine March 29 is a good day for a turbine raising, and the crew at KEA spends the afternoon getting the site ready for the event. The hard-packed snow squeaks under bunny boots.
Hard hats shine in the sun.
Bolts are tightened, connections, seals and clearances checked. At the crane controls, Steve moves the block into position near the 80-foot turbine tower, which lays prone on supports, the long blades of the turbine rotor facing the ground. The rest of the crew, including Matt, Cliff, Mike, Reuben, and Philip lock the rotor, so it won't spin as the tower is raised, and secure heavy straps to the turbine. Then they spread out to compass points around the tower. Upon approval by the General Manager, Cliff punches his fist high in the air and shouts to the Steve, the crane operator, to take the tower up.