The Boulder, Colo., center will focus on research and development of new wind turbine technology.

According to the release, the facility is expected to employ an estimated 50 people who will study atmospheric science research, aerodynamic blade design, structural dynamics, wind turbine dispatch prediction and reliability.

Siemens and the National Renewable Energy Lab also announced their intent to enter a cooperative research and development agreement for the installation of a Siemens 2.3-megawatt pilot wind turbine with a 101-meter rotor at the National Wind Technology Center, just south of Boulder.

Siemens will test basic turbine characteristics, performance-enhancing features and reliability under severe weather conditions.

The Boulder location will be Siemens' first research facility in the United States.