WAPA buying more wind power

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A federal agency that markets electricity generated by Missouri River dams is increasing its partnerships with wind farms in the Dakotas.

The Western Area Power Administration late last year signed a three-year contract to buy up to 50 megawatts of wind power annually from North Dakota-based Basin Electric Power Cooperative. The contract begins in January.

WAPA and Basin are close to inking a second deal for 100 megawatts of wind power annually for three years, from a wind farm in northeastern South Dakota. And WAPA is negotiating with a North Dakota-Minnesota company called Just Wind for another 100 megawatts of power per year over five years.

WAPA also has been working on a study of integrating wind and water-based power. One official says it will recommend that Congress authorize a long-term demonstration project in the region.

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