“What’s that?” I hear you ask. That is the ExPlace Wind Turbine. This towering structure stands as a symbol of Toronto’s commitment to renewable energy. It represents a groundbreaking achievement in urban sustainability.
WindShare is the name of the project. It is a testament to community collaboration. This wind turbine is not just a machine. It is a statement. It says Toronto is serious about a greener future.
Let’s delve into the story of WindShare. The Toronto Renewable Energy Co-operative or TREC conceived this project. They had a vision. They wanted to bring wind power to the heart of the city. In 1998, TREC was officially incorporated.
TREC received a grant in 1999. It was to study potential locations for an urban wind turbine. They partnered with Toronto Hydro. This partnership aimed to make the vision a reality.
WindShare officially launched in February 2002. It was created as a for-profit cooperative. Members of TREC were invited to join WindShare. This strengthened the community bond around the project.
Construction began in December 2002. The ExPlace wind turbine was erected. It was a historic moment. It marked the first wind turbine in a major North American urban center. Also, it was the first community-owned wind power project in Ontario.
The ExPlace turbine began generating electricity on January 23, 2003. It was a triumph. It showed that urban wind power was possible. The turbine stands 91 meters tall. Its rotor diameter is 52 meters.
The wind turbine faced challenges over the years. There were converter problems. There was water damage. But each time, the community rallied. They repaired and upgraded the turbine.
Toronto Hydro transferred its share to WindShare Cooperative in November 2022. WindShare then partnered with Rankin Integrated Energy. This solidified WindShare’s role. It became a key player in renewable energy.
The Lagerwey Wind LW 52 turbine is a technical marvel. It weighs about 121000 kg. Its tower stands 65 m tall. The turbine’s three blades are each 25 m long.
The turbine operates efficiently. It produces power at wind speeds of 19 to 22 km/h. Construction of the turbine cost CAD$1.8 million. It adds approximately 1000 MWh of electricity to the city’s grid each year.
WindShare pioneered community wind power in Canada. It shows a strong commitment to community accountability and education. These pillars promote a better energy future.
The members of WindShare come from diverse backgrounds. They stretch from Quebec to British Columbia. They are united. They share a vision.
WindShare holds itself accountable. It does this for protecting the environment. It is for future generations. It strives to share knowledge and expertise. It does this on clean energy options. These enable a better energy future for all.
As you stand here today, remember WindShare. Think of the power. Think of the community. Think of the possibilities. This turbine is not just steel and blades. It is a symbol of hope. It is a reminder. It is a reminder that we can build a sustainable future together.