H-E-B Marks Wind-Turbine Installation

(Oct. 1) H-E-B, the San Antonio-based supermarket chain, and Wind Energy Corp. of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, celebrated the successful installation of a state-of-the-art vertical-axis turbine at the chain’s retail support center in Weslaco, Texas. The turbine, which has been installed adjacent to the facility, is now generating electricity and operating at speeds as low as four miles per hour.

“H-E-B is thrilled to be a part of this landmark achievement in the development of energy solutions,” said Shelley Parks, director of South Texas Public Affairs for H-E-B. “At the outset, we have looked at this research and development partnership as a unique opportunity for us to conduct our business in a responsible and sustainable way while contributing to the development of a revolutionary energy solution. Today validates our initial investment, and we look forward to continuing to work with Wind Energy Corp. to understand viable alternative energy solutions.”

The partnership between H-E-B and Wind Energy, which was announced in February 2008, consists of an 18-month to 24-month wind-resource research project at the Weslaco site. The turbine is located atop a 100-ft.-tall tower and is flanked by two 195-ft.-tall meteorological towers, which were installed in March and have been collecting high-resolution wind data for the past six months.

"This successful installation and the generation of electricity at low wind speeds will revolutionize the renewable energy marketplace," said James Fugitte, chairman and CEO of Wind Energy.