Posting Language
Title
Authorize negotiation and execution of a power purchase agreement extension with Whirlwind Energy LLC, for the purchase of up to 60 megawatts of wind-generated electricity in an estimated amount of up to $10,000,000 per year, for a term of up to 20 years, for a total estimated amount of up to $200,000,000. Funding: The extension begins in Fiscal Year 2027-2028. Funding is contingent upon available funding in future budgets.
De
Lead Department
Austin Energy
Fiscal Note
The extension begins in Fiscal Year 2027-2028. Funding is contingent upon available funding in future budgets.
For More Information:
Amy Everhart, Director, Local Government Issues 512-322-6087; Pat Sweeney, Interim Vice President Market Operations & Resource Planning 512-322-6183.
Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action:
August 10, 2026- Recommended by the Electric Utility Commission on a 7-0 vote, with Commissioners Alvarez, Reed, and White absent, and one vacancy.
Additional Backup Information:
A 20-year Power Purchase Agreement between Austin Energy and Whirlwind Energy LLC is set to expire in December 2027. This request seeks to extend the agreement for an additional 20-year term.
The recommended wind power purchase agreement supports Austin Energy's carbon-free energy goals established in the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan.
The wind facility is already commissioned and operating in the West Texas region of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) service region. The agreement does not require Austin Energy to invest in the operation or maintenance of the facilities, and it offers a competitive, non-escalating, fixed price per megawatt-hour that is consistent with renewable energy purchase agreements authorized by Council in May 2026.
The project has demonstrated a history of strong renewable energy production with minimal transmission congestion and is expected to provide continued price-risk mitigation to the...
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