In recognition of the heavy dependence on fossil fuels and associated escalating costs and environmental impacts, the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners passed a resolution in April 2006 directing the Department of Planning and Environment to test the wind resources in the County and examine the feasibility of providing wind generated electricity for county residents and businesses. To help ensure project success, Washtenaw County formed a working partnership with the City of Ann Arbor and the University of Michigan to form the current project team.

Project Partners

Chrysler, LLC is generously supporting the project, offering financial assistance as well as hosting the test Tower at the Chrysler Chelsea Proving Grounds in Sylvan Township, Michigan. Chrysler is interested in the development of wind power to help offset its own energy costs as well as help to promote energy independence and reduce carbon emissions. The company is also engaged in developing biofuels and is investigating solar power at several of its facilities. For more information on Chrysler's commitment to the project and the environment, contact Max Gates

The University of Michigan has recently rededicated itself to the pursuit of alternative energy, fostering such initiatives as the Phoenix Memorial Laboratory, the Graham Sustainability Institute as well as continuing to fund such programs as the Center for Sustainable Systems and the ERB institute. In line with these initiatives, Professor Gerald Keeler, PhD, has developed a course which allows students in Atmospheric Sciences to play a central role in a wind study and do practical research and apply skills that will be high in demand throughout the next decade.

The City of Ann Arbor has long been a leader in energy policy and alternative energy supply. The City currently produces energy from hydroelectric dams, land fill gas, and biodigesters, and in 2006, the City set a goal of using 30 percent renewable energy in its municipal operations by 2010 and 20 percent community-wide by 2015. Given its commitment to developing alternative sources of energy, staff from the City Energy Office agreed to join the Wind Power Washtenaw collaboration.

To assist the partners in this project, the county has retained the services of North Coast Wind and Power, a consulting firm specializing in alternative energy development including wind feasibility studies, fatal flaw analysis, investment financing and facility development. Information about this company can be found at http://www.northcoastwindandpower.com.

Questions should be directed to Joshua Long, Washtenaw County Energy Coordinator.