Vermont Business Magazine The public may now sign up for Green Mountain Power’s free public tours of the 21-turbine Kingdom Community Wind project in Lowell offered during June, July and August. This is an opportunity for Vermonters and out-of-state visitors alike to experience a working wind farm, and learn how GMP is harnessing the power of wind. Tours of the GMP wind project in Lowell have become a popular Vermont activity during the summer. More than 1,200 people have visited the site every summer since tours began in 2013, coming from all over the state, as well from across the country and overseas. Visitors to the plant frequently enjoy local restaurants and shops, making for an enjoyable outing and helping the local economy.
GMP tour at the Lowell wind farm. GMP photo.
“We love showing visitors Kingdom Community Wind,” said Mary Powell, President and CEO of Green Mountain Power. “Having the opportunity to see the turbines close up is an exciting experience and helps people understand the benefits of this project and technology. Kingdom Community Wind is a very successful, cost-effective project that has helped us lower rates for customers.”
Many of the visitors last year responded to a survey with comments like: “Learned a lot about the wind turbines. Also a great view!,” “It’s for the better of all. They are conscientious about the terrain, landscape, habitat, wildlife…,” “They are awesome sculptural objects,” “I liked everything!! The site is wonderful, very well done. The information was great and the informal setting was good for asking whatever question we had. The turbines are impressive and very quiet. I find them very calming to watch.”
Each tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, and includes a visit to two of the turbines. The tours are free, but advance registration is required.
To register for a tour, please sign up on the Green Mountain Power website at http://www.greenmountainpower.com/innovative/wind/windtours/ or call Gert Tetreault at 802-744-6664.
2016 tour dates:
All tours are at 10 am. If tours become filled, a second tour at 12:30 will be opened. School groups are welcome and can be arranged by calling 802-655-8418.
Wednesday, June 1
Wednesday June 8
Saturday, June 18
Wednesday June 22
Wednesday June 29
Wednesday July 6
Wednesday, July 13
Saturday, July 23
Wednesday July 27
Wednesday August 3
Wednesday August 10
Saturday, August 20
Wednesday, August 24
Wednesday, August 31