A Barre Town company that makes wind turbines is hoping to find local businesses who can supply it with components and services as it expands its business. Northern Power Systems and the Vermont Department of Economic, Housing and Community Development are teaming up to hold a “Supply Chain Open House” to match up potential suppliers with the company on November 13.
“As we expand our production – particularly into the utility-scale turbine market – Northern Power is looking to ‘buy local’ wherever possible,” said Taylor Robinson, Vice President of Global Supply Chain for the firm. “Not only does this reduce transportation and other procurement costs, but it helps our neighbors and the state’s economy.”
Northern Power President and CEO John P. Danner; Lieutenant Governor Brian Dubie; and Commerce and Community Development Secretary Kevin Dorn will join Robinson at the day-long open house.
Dubie, who came up with the idea for the event after another constituent asked him to facilitate a meeting with Northern Power officials to discuss doing business, praised the company’s commitment to Vermont.
“This is a win-win for our state,” Dubie said. “A key employer in a green industry sector is strengthened by shortening its supply chain, and other businesses in the state get a new market for their products and services.”
Northern Power has invited representatives from approximately 40 Vermont companies – mostly manufacturers – whose products or services may be applicable to tour the facility and learn about the firm’s requirements, Robinson said.
Founded in 1974 in Warren, Northern Power has grown to 150 employees including manufacturing, engineering, sales and marketing personnel at its headquarters building in the Wilson Industrial Park. It also has a European sales office in Switzerland.
The company’s flagship product, the Northwind 100, is a technologically advanced100-kilowatt community scale turbine designed for use by businesses, farms, schools, or remote village applications. Recent installations include elementary schools, supermarkets, hospitals, greenhouses and Bolton Valley Ski Resort—the first Vermont Northwind 100 project.
Northern Power Systems is also developing a utility-scale 2.2 megawatt wind turbine that is projected to be ready for market in late 2010
“The State of Vermont has been a supportive partner in our growth, and as we move into the commercial wind generation market we look forward to continuing that relationship,” Robinson said.
Source: Commerce Agency. www.northernpower.com
Barre wind turbine maker looking to buy local
Submitted by tim
on