RMT, Inc.(RMT), a renewable energy engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor specializing in the design and construction of wind and solar energy generating facilities, completed final turbine erection and energized the electrical system at First Wind’s 21-MW KWP II Wind project in Maui, Hawaii, in early May.
“This is not only a critical construction milestone, but also a great technical accomplishment for our team, who experienced difficult terrain and unpredictable weather conditions,” said RMT Vice President of Construction Operations Kenny Knecht. “This has been a complex project with challenges from every angle. I am proud of our ability to keep everyone onsite safe and to deliver a quality project to First Wind.”
RMT began construction on KWP II in 2011. The company is providing engineering, procurement, and construction of the civil and electrical infrastructure, including the installation of 14 GE SE 1.5-MW wind turbines. The civil infrastructure includes roads, crane paths and pads, and turbine foundations. The electrical infrastructure includes a 34.5/69-kV substation, 34.5 kV electrical collection system, and interconnection to the 69 kV Maui Electric Company (MECO) transmission line. RMT is also responsible for tower erection, operations and maintenance building remodel, SCADA system, and storm water management design.
KWP II is an expansion of the existing 30-MW Kaheawa Wind. When complete in the summer of 2012, the expanded wind farm will have a combined capacity of 51 MW.
In addition to KWP II, RMT is currently building First Wind's Palouse Wind project in Washington and Kawailoa Wind project in Hawaii. RMT also led the construction of First Wind's Milford I & II Wind projects in Utah, Kahuku Wind project in Hawaii, and Sheffield Wind project in Vermont