Two northeast Oklahoma legislators have come out in support of the controversial Wind Catcher Energy Connection Project, one that would create the largest wind farm in the U.S.
State Sen. Roger Thompson of Okemah and Rep. Weldon Watson of Tulsa issued statements urging the Corporation Commission to grant preapproval of the project proposed by Public Service Company of Oklahoma.
Both are Republicans. Watson is term limited but chairs the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee while Thompson chairs the Senate Finance Appropriations Subcommittee.
“First, we’re talking energy savings—plus customers will enjoy consistent rates for the next 25 years,” said Thompson, R-Okemah. “Beyond that, we’re looking at $4.5 billion in direct investments, and additional $2 billion in associated economic activity, as well as thousands of jobs. The settlement terms guaranteeing PSO customer savings and other economic benefits for our state can only be secured by the quick action of the Corporation Commission”
“We’re talking about the creation of more than 8,000 jobs during construction, over $300 million in ad valorem revenues over the life of the project, millions of dollars to landowners, Oklahoma manufacturing jobs at Trinity Tower Manufacturing in Tulsa for part of the turbine towers and 90 permanent, high quality operations and maintenance jobs,” said Watson, R-Tulsa. “That’s why we’ve submitted this letter of support urging approval of this project.”
Rep. Watson represents Tulsa County while Sen. Thompson’s Senate District 8 includes Okmulgee and McIntosh counties and parts of Okfuskee and Muskogee counties.
