RI business group opposes wind power agreement

WARWICK, R.I.

An organization that represents some of Rhode Island's largest electricity users has come out against a proposed power-purchase agreement between National Grid and the developer of a wind farm in state waters.

The executive director of The Energy Council of Rhode Island told the Public Utilities Commission on Tuesday that an agreement by Deepwater Wind to sell power from eight turbines proposed for Block Island waters at more than twice the price National Grid pays for electricity from current sources.

John Farley says the higher prices would burden organization members, which include businesses, universities and hospitals.

The PUC must approve the power deal.

Gov. Don Carcieri supports the wind farm and power-purchase agreement, saying it will create jobs and benefit the environment.