Pattern Energy has ordered 2.4 GW turbines from GE Vernova’s onshore wind business for its SunZia wind project in New Mexico, US. Pattern is developing the SunZia Wind project, which has a capacity of over 3.5 GW overall. The wind project will be connected to SunZia Transmission, a 3 GW-capable, 885 km-long, 525 kV HVDC line. The wind project is situated in the New Mexico counties of San Miguel, Lincoln, and Torrance. The transmission line between south-central Arizona and the state’s centre will be installed.
In September 2023, Pattern Energy started construction on the transmission line. The company then signed a non-recourse finance agreement in December, 2023. A letter of credit facility, innovative tax equity term loan facilities, and an integrated construction loan are all part of the $11 billion funding package. Also, banks such as BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, and MUFG Bank offered $8.8 billion in construction and term credit facilities.
GE is set to provide 674 3.6-154 turbines. For over 18 months, both companies have worked together on supply chain optimisation and development to enhance site performance and cut down on unnecessary variations. GE Vernova will use its nacelle plant in Pensacola, Florida, as well as its tower production sites in Pueblo, Colorado, and Amarillo, Texas. For the project, Pattern Energy has also received financial and consultancy services from GE Vernova.
