Item 8- RCA: Whirlwind Energy — original pdf

Backup

Posting Language ..Title Authorize negotiation and execution of a wind power purchase agreement extension with Whirlwind Energy LLC, for the purchase and sale of up to 60 megawatts of electricity in an estimated amount of up to $10,000,000 per year, for a term of up to 20 years, for a total estimated amount of up to $200,000,000. Funding is contingent upon budgetary approval in future budgets. Item 8 ..De Lead Department Austin Energy Fiscal Note Funding is contingent upon budgetary approval in future budgets. Prior Council Action: For More Information: Amy Everhart, Director, Local Government Issues (512) 322-6087; Pat Sweeney, Interim Vice President Market Operations & Resource Planning (512) 322-6183. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: August 10, 2026- To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission. Additional Backup Information: In 2006, Austin Energy and Whirlwind Energy LLC entered into a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement, which is set to expire in December 2027. This authorization provides funding for an extension of the agreement at a competitive price consistent with renewable energy purchase agreements previously authorized by Council in May 2026. The recommended wind power purchase agreement supports Austin Energy’s carbon-free energy goals established in the Austin Energy Resource, Generation, and Climate Protection Plan. The wind facility is already commissioned and operating in the West Texas region of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). The agreement does not require Austin Energy to invest in the operation or maintenance of the facilities and it offers a non-escalating, fixed price per megawatt-hour. The project has demonstrated a history of strong renewable energy production with minimal transmission congestion and is expected to provide continued price-risk mitigation to the Power Supply Adjustment.