$5,600 approved for Methuen wind project

February 12, 2009 12:06 am

—

METHUEN — A $5,600 grant has been awarded for Methuen to take the initial step to determine the feasibility of placing a wind turbine on the former Methuen Ski Hill.

The state's Renewable Energy Trust announced the award yesterday, which will allow for a site survey and a preliminary assessment of the potential for energy generation.

The Renewable Energy Research Laboratory at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst will conduct a "desktop analysis" to determine if the site is big enough and has sufficient wind.

After that, researchers will visit the site and complete a wind survey report within 45 days of the visit.

"Using this site as a source for renewable energy would be terrific for Methuen," said state Sen. Steven Baddour, D-Methuen.

"We are on the leading edge of Massachusetts communities in promoting alternative energy and the city did a great job with their application," said state Rep. Linda Dean Campbell, D-Methuen.