HARRISBURG – Legislation that would allow for a wind farm on land within the Gallitzin State Forest passed with unanimous support in the Senate State Government Committee yesterday, according to state Sen. John Wozniak (D-Johnstown).
Senate Bill 684 would allow the alternative energy company EverPower Wind Holdings Inc. to construct 20 to 25 wind turbines on land leased from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This tract of land was previously a strip mine and currently supports little vegetation or tree growth.
“We’re always looking for more sustainable ways to power Pennsylvania,” Wozniak said. “This is the perfect site to use state land for clean, renewable energy.”
Since 2008, EverPower has operated the Highland Wind Farm in Cambria County on reclaimed strip mine land and a native forest. Throughout its lifetime, the wind farm will generate more than $20 million in taxes to the state and local townships.
Adjacent to the Highland project, an additional wind farm is being constructed. It will generate an estimated $20 million in revenue throughout its lifetime and create dozens of jobs.
“This wind farm will generate clean energy, jobs and millions of dollars of revenue,” Wozniak said. “I’m hopeful for continued support as the bill moves out of committee.”
The legislation now goes to the Senate for consideration.
