Pattern Energy signs O&M agreement with Duke Energy Renewable Services

CHARLOTTE, USA: Duke Energy Renewable Services has signed a long-term agreement to service Pattern Energy Group Inc.'s 283-megawatt (MW) Gulf Wind energy project in Armstrong, Texas.

Duke Energy Renewable Services will supply operations and maintenance services for three years, beginning in November, with an option for a two-year extension. Duke Energy Renewable Services has also provided service and maintenance work at Pattern Energy's Hatchet Ridge wind site in Burney, Calif., since 2012.

"We have been pleased with Duke's service and maintenance work at our Hatchet Ridge Wind farm, where they have helped us deliver consistently safe and reliable operations," said Chris Shugart, senior VP of operations at Pattern Energy. "We look forward to extending this relationship to our Gulf Wind project."

The fully operational wind project is comprised of 118 2.4-MW Mitsubishi MWT95 turbines and sits on 9,600 acres. The project began operations in 2009.

"We're pleased to expand our relationship with a successful, independent wind power company," said Greg Wolf, president of Duke Energy Renewables. "Pattern Energy shares our commitment to safe and efficient operations, the environment and the communities in which we operate. This partnership will continue to deliver benefits to both parties."

Duke Energy Renewable Services, an organization resulting from Duke Energy's 2012 acquisition of Minnesota-based Outland Energy Services, has deep experience operating wind assets and increasing customer's energy yield during times of high electricity demand.

"We are looking forward to ensuring another successful project for Pattern Energy," said Jeff Wehner, VP of Duke Energy Renewables. "Our ability to leverage our operational experience and buying power for component parts allows us to provide cost-effective maintenance that will optimize the performance of the Gulf Wind Project, resulting in greater service value."