The 40 MW Amayo Wind Power Project is a clean, renewable energy project located in the Rivas Municipality, in the southwestern part of the country. It is the first wind farm in Nicaragua and an excellent example of technology transfer to a developing country.
The main objective of the project is to provide affordable electricity to the Nicaraguan grid, utilising nineteen 2.1 megawatt Suzlon S88 60HZ V3 wind turbine generators, for a total power capacity of 39.9 MW per year. The net power production provided to the national grid is expected to be approximately 169 GWh per year. The Amayo wind farm started to produce electricity 12/02/2009.
Benefits: Climate & Environment
The Amayo 40 MW Wind Power Project in Nicaragua is expected to reduce emissions by over 106,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent per year.
- Environmental Benefits: Reduces the electricity grid’s heavy reliance on fossil fuel and helps lower emissions of other pollutants.
- Water Conservation: The project has minimal impact on water quality with measures in place to monitor and protect local water sources.
- Soil Protection: Efforts are made to prevent soil erosion and promote sustainable land use, including reforestation and waste management.
- Biodiversity Preservation: Measures to minimize impact on local wildlife such as bird collisions and protecting natural habitats.
Benefits: Social & Economic
The project has a significant beneficial impact on the local communities providing substantial benefits.
- Job Creation: The project employs approximately 18 full time operational personnel and creates around 60 indirect jobs in the area.
- Economic Development: The project saves around $10.8 million per year by reducing the reliance on imported fuel and enhancing the country’s balance of payments, strengthening the currency.
- Technology Transfer: The project train local workers in wind power generation and has created a pool of skilled workers.
- Affordable Energy: Reducing the electricity cost for the consumers as the project provides one of the cheapest sources of energy in the country.
- Community Engagement: The project activity contributes to local and regional universities and schools by educational visits and conferences.
Project Verification
