East River Electric Power Cooperative and Basin Electric Power Cooperative co-sponsored the wind turbine development called PrairieWinds. The two-turbine project, located north of Chamberlain, SD, has been operating since January 2002. This electric co-op venture was the first commercial, large-scale wind power project in South Dakota.
Effective January 1, 2003, Dakota Energy customers who get a portion of their power from Prairie Winds will see a slight reduction in their rates. The rate, which had been an additional $3.00 per 100 kWh block will drop to $2.50 per 100 kWh block.
Prairie Winds energy comes from two wind turbines near Chamberlain, SD that were built by East River Electric and Basin Electric Power Cooperative last year. Approximately 700 customers take part throughout East River's service area in South Dakota and Minnesota. If you are interested in purchasing wind energy blocks from Prairie Winds please call Dakota Energy today.
from Cooperative Connections Magazine, December 2002