Crews finishing first phase of Luther wind turbine project

Photo by decorahnews.com's Paul Scott

The first phase of the Luther College wind turbine construction project is wrapping up. 

Crews from Diversified Energy Solutions from Gary, South Dakota attached the blades to the tower on Thursday.   Strong winds prevented the blades from being put into place on Wednesday, but the job was finished in around five hours time on Thursday.

The construction of the tower is just the first phase of the project.  The blades now will slowly turn in the wind to protect the turbine bearings.  Alliant Energy crews will work to establish a connection from the wind turbine to the Alliant Energy grid.  General Electric employees will inspect the turbine before it is put into commission—the turbine is expected to begin commercial operations in mid to late October.

Photo by decorahnews.com's Paul Scott

Photo courtesy of Gerald Harvey

Photo courtesy of Gerald Harvey

Photo courtesy of Dale Elsbernd