Uilk Wind Farm

Overview

The Uilk Wind Farm, located in Pipestone, Minnesota, was a pioneering project for introducing Goldwind’s GW77 1.5 MegaWatt turbines to the North American market. As one of the largest Chinese wind turbine manufacturers, Goldwind sought to demonstrate its technology in the U.S. However, exporting new clean technology presented significant challenges. Horizon Legacy was instrumental in overcoming these obstacles and successfully bringing the project to completion.

Challenges and Solutions

The project faced several hurdles, including the integration of a top-tier Chinese turbine supplier's technology into the North American market, higher risks in construction and financing, and cultural differences in business practices. Horizon Legacy stepped in to navigate these challenges, taking on risks that others were unwilling to manage. By thoroughly understanding the project and working closely with all parties, Horizon Legacy helped mitigate risks and facilitate successful construction and commissioning.

Key Features

Demonstration Project: Showcased Goldwind’s technology in North America, establishing a precedent for future projects.
Strategic Collaboration: Horizon Legacy collaborated with the original developers to address construction and financing challenges, ensuring the project’s completion.
Technological Integration: Successfully deployed three Goldwind GW77 1.5 MegaWatt turbines, marking a significant milestone for Goldwind in the American market.

Operational Excellence

Horizon Legacy’s involvement in the Uilk Wind Farm exemplifies its ability to manage complex projects with high risks. The team’s commitment to understanding the nuances of the project and its dedication to finding solutions were critical to the project’s success. The control of the project was eventually returned to the principal developers once the challenges were resolved.

Key Benefits

The Uilk Wind Farm serves as a successful case study for integrating international technology into the U.S. renewable energy market. It demonstrates Horizon Legacy’s capacity to handle challenging projects and foster successful collaborations between international and local partners. The project has contributed to Minnesota’s renewable energy targets, providing clean energy to the region.

Our Impact

Horizon Legacy is revolutionizing the construction industry with the first and largest neighborhood in Canada built using onsite robotics.

Cost Efficiency

Our approach delivers an average cost of under $300K per unit (costs exclude land, servicing, softcosts) showcasing that robots can be integrated affordably while meeting and exceeding the Ontario Building Code.

With 26 rental units, including 30% affordable, we surpass industry standards.

Our project achieves a 20% reduction in energy intensity and greenhouse gas emissions, and our all-electric buildings ensure zero greenhouse gas energy consumption.

By creating wall assemblies with R-30 thermal performance and consolidating three trades into one, we effectively address the labor shortage, demonstrating the transformative potential of robotics in construction.