California Edison's Deal to Double Wind Power Capacity - 12/22/06

Southern California Edison said Thursday it has signed a new energy contract that will more than double the company's wind power-generating capacity in the region.

CA Edison called the deal with Alta Windpower Development, a subsidiary of Australia-based Allco Financial Group Inc., the largest wind energy contract ever for a U.S. utility.

The deal covers at least 1,500 megawatts of electricity; one megawatt is enough to power for about 650 homes.

Edison's deal with Alta should move the company closer to the state's goal of generating 20% or more of its electric power from renewable, clean energy sources, Michael R. Peevey, president of the California Public Utilities Commission, said in a prepared statement.

Once the project is completed, it will be capable of generating 4,500 megawatts of electricity, or enough power for nearly 3 million homes, Edison said.

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