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GRAND RAPIDS - Windemuller began working with Northern Power systems early on in their process of designing the first utility grade wind turbine manufactured in Michigan. The 2.2 MW turbine has blades that measure 45.2 meters long. Windemuller’s team worked on the design of the medium voltage requirements of the permanent magnet turbine.

“Our experience working with wind turbines gave us a huge advantage in the design of this turbine” said Rick Johnson Renewable Energy Manager at Windemuller.

The install of this turbine was performed in the evening of December 20 at the Stoney Corners Wind farm in McBain. It is preferred to perform the installs during the day, however in order to meet the deadline of the project work was done during the evening. Due to the size of the generator (130,000 lbs) there was an added step in the installation. Normally the tower is lifted, followed by the nacelle, then the blades. In this case, the generator required an additional step in hoisting up separately from the nacelle.

“Because of our experience with the installation we have been asked to perform the next install for Northern Power in Texas,” said Chris McGuire, lead wind technician for Windemuller.

Windemuller was established in 1954 as an electrical contractor. While it still offers electrical services, the firm also provides automation services, communications services, outdoor utility services and information technologies services. Windemuller is headquartered in Wayland, with satellite offices in Big Rapids, Whitehall, Harbor Springs and Traverse City.