In a recent article in The Muskegon Chronicle, it was reported that researchers at Grand Valley State University’s Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center (MAREC) cited a lack of year-around data (on wind platform testing) needed by prospective development companies.
MAREC, which was formed under the guidance of Grand Valley State University, is a cooperative effort among several organizations: including: Michigan Public Service Commission, City of Muskegon, Muskegon Area First, Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce, Community Foundation of Muskegon County, Muskegon Community College and the Muskegon Economic Development Corporation. The focus of MAREC has been to provide alternative energy education and support the economic development of Muskegon and the State.
MAREC's plan to build a wind platform test station was originally slated for Muskegon Lake. A revised proposal is now targeting offshsore testing in Lake Michigan.
U.S. Representative Pete Hoekstra R-Holland is leading efforts to secure $1.4 in the funding for the installation of a wind test platform offshore in Lake Michigan. Grand Valley State University is seeking a matching funds donor for roughly $280,000. The matching funds are needed to obtain federal dollars.
Arn Boezaart, Interim Director at MAERC in Muskegon, indicated, “I think it is pretty clear that the GVSU project will make a contribution to the industry.”
For more information:
http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2009/10/grand_valley_state_universitys.html
http://http://www.gvsu.edu/marec/index.cfm?id=347C220D-934C-8137-DAA00A75E01CA8A7
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