Wind farm project unites two companies

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich (WOOD) - In six years, Michigan's energy production has to be at least 10 percent wind-generated. Rockford Construction announced Tuesday a partnership with a Spanish company to put West Michigan into a strong position in the emerging field.

The local company teamed with Berge Logistica Energetica to help move machinery for the wind turbines. It's a specialized market, because handling the machinery parts is difficult.

"We're looking at towers that are 350 feet tall, blades that are 150 feet," said Rockford Construction's Mike VanGessel. "The comfort level that we needed to get to take on a project of this size is the relationship with Berge."

The new company, called Rockford Berge, is in discussions with around 30 potential developers of wind farms of various sizes to provide the logistical help in setting them up.

The Right Place is also working with a number of local firms to switch into making parts for big wind turbines.