Wind technology testing center funded

CHARLESTOWN, Mass., May 12 (UPI) -- U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced $25 million in funding for the Massachusetts Wind Technology Testing Center.

Chu and Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick said the funding will create jobs and accelerate development of the nation's only large wind turbine blade test facility

Officials said the new center will test commercial-sized wind turbine blades to help reduce cost, improve technical advancements and speed deployment of the next generation of wind turbine blades into the marketplace.

State Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Ian Bowles joined Chu and Patrick for the Tuesday announcement in Charlestown, Mass., the center's eventual site.

"This is part of President Obama's broad agenda to make sure that our country leads the world in capturing the clean energy jobs of the future," said Chu. "As the world moves toward a significant expansion in wind power, the test blade facility will help make sure that the best, most efficient wind turbines are built right here in America. Not only will it create jobs and help us achieve energy independence, it will mean cleaner air, cleaner water and fewer greenhouse gas emissions."

Officials said the center will be the first commercial large blade test facility in the nation, testing blades longer than 164 feet.