ECONOMICS 101 - THUMB WIND TURBINES WILL REQUIRE NEW TRANSMISSION LINES IN THUMB

Michigan's thumb has been labeled as the primary wind zone for Michigan with projections of up to 4,236 MW  or 1,578 to 2,824 wind turbines (depending on MW size) constructed in this region.  The problem, though, is the lack of transmission infrastructure to move the electricity produced by these turbines to the grid for use where it is needed.  ITC has recently announced its plans for this upgrade - a 140 mile loop of high powered electrical lines which will be the "backbone", which means additional "connective" lines built throughout the region. 

For more information, visit

http://www.itctransco.com/ITCprofile_ThumbLoopFINAL%207.13.pdf

What isn't provided in this industry handout is the costs that will be passed on to all of us as consumers.  This project is projected to cost 500 to 700 Million Dollars.  Us, as rate payers, will pay this cost.  Currently we pay .05 to .07 cents per kilowatt hour on our electric bills for transmission.  According to an ITC Rep, this will likely increase to .15 - .20 cents per kilowatt.  These are only projections and costs likely will run higher.

We have to ask ourselves, is it really the best use of our money?