How it Works
Mechanics of Windpower
A wind energy system transforms the kinetic energy of wind into electrical energy that can be harnessed for practical use.
1. Wind blows and the blades rotate the hub.
2. Hub rotation turns a generator that produces electricity.
3. Electricity is transmitted to a transformer at the base of the turbine tower
4. Electricity is transferred to a substation for delivery to the utility's transmission grid.
Typical Wind Turbine
CRCE Construction Process in Canada
A windpower project moving through the development process into construction and operation utilizing the Canadian Renewable and Conservation Expense (CRCE) tax assisted financing structure is typically developed in the following phases:
Phase 1: Site Evaluation
- A site evaluation is completed in order to assess the adequacy of a particular site and related wind resources for windpower production
- Wind data is collected
- Assessment on its location, the degree of local community and First Nation support, site accessibility and access to an interconnection on the electricity transmission grid.
Phase 2: Project Development
- Rights to access the site are acquired
- Additional wind studies and preliminary engineering reports
- Permits are negotiated
Phase 3: CRCE Turbine
- CRCE qualifying test turbines, which may be financed with 100% deductible flow-through equity
- Construction of access roads, collection system, substation interconnection transmission facilities and remote monitoring systems.
Phase 4: Infill Construction
- Remaining wind turbines are constructed in order to infill the windpower project.
- Typically, infill turbines are financed using construction debt
Phase 5: Production Phase
- Production sold to power market
- Maintenance and warranty contract with turbine supplier