Marathon Wind Energy Development Project
Type of initiative
FCM Green Municipal Fund - Plans, Studies, Pilots
Sector
Energy
Project value$100,000
Project Type
Feasibility Study
Sub Sector
Renewable Energy Generation – Wind
Grant amount$50,000
Program type
GMF
Municipality
Town of Marathon, ON
Status
Fully Disbursed
Population
3,138
Project timeline
2005 - 2011
Project number
7025
Description
The Town of Marathon and Marathon Pulp Inc. (MPI) have entered into a joint venture to explore and research the potential of a mid-sized (20 to 50 MW) renewable wind energy farm situated along the coast of Lake Superior, within the Town limits. Marathon is interested in the project because it would offer its residents increased energy independence and savings, environmental sustainability, improved human health and the potential for economic development. The project could ultimately eliminate MPI’s high fixed hydro cost and make it a more competitive operation, while gaining recognition as a leader in the use of sustainable renewable energy technologies. The 12-month on-site wind-monitoring field test will collect real data to demonstrate the project’s economic feasibility. A business case and engineering design work will follow. It is estimated that the wind farm could provide an approximate annual reduction of 24,000 to 56,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide, 96 to 224 tonnes of nitrous oxide and 28 to 64 tonnes of sulphur dioxide per year over the existing generation mix.
Applicant
Town of Marathon, ON