The Beaver Ridge Wind Project

The Beaver Ridge Wind Project is a step on the path that Maine is taking to switch over to more renewable energy sources. Wind energy is far cleaner then traditional energy sources. Maine is a state very concerned with the state of its environment, with many of its residents already using wind or solar power in place of traditional electricity. Mainers live here for the peace and quiet, as well as for the joy of small town country living. There are some concerns about the impact of wind farms on both the Maine environment, and the aesthetic value of living in rural towns, including tourism and the scenic views Maine is known for.

What is the Beaver Ridge Wind Project?

The Beaver Ridge Wind project involved the placing of three wind turbines on Beaver Ridge, the highest point in the town of Freedom, on fields owned by Town Selectman Ron Price. The permit was for three 400 foot GE wind turbines, held by Beaver Ridge Wind, an affiliate of Competitive Energy Services out of Portland. The project was given the go ahead on June 12^th, 2007. The project wasn't completed until November 2008 due to heavy opposition from town residents.

The Beaver Ridge Wind Project is estimated to be able to supply 2000 homes with electricity and save 4400 tons of CO2 emissions. The Beaver Ridge Wind Project is slated to produce 4.5MW of power combined.

The Wind Turbines

Beaver Ridge Wind was proposed to be powered by three 400 foot GE 1.5sle wind turbines. The wind turbines were proposed to have a "cold pack" or cold weather package, to allow them to operate safely in the sometimes extreme Maine cold. Without the cold weather package, temperatures below -4 F can cause the wind turbine blades to bend in towards the tower. The GE 1.5sle wind turbines safely operate from -4F to 104F, and can take cold up to -22F without operating.

A Bit About Freedom

Freedom Maine is a very rural section of the world. Its a town where everyone knows everyone else, and they all look out for one another. The residents of Freedom take pride in its remoteness and unchanging nature. Many of the residents live on discontinued dirt roads, miles from their nearest neighbors, and they like it that way. A true small town community.

The folks living on the Ridge itself are a special breed of people, very used to isolation. They are hard-working, self-sufficient individuals.