Workers from Rocknoll Energy Systems used a crane and cable to lift the windmill and put it on its concrete pad.
This came after two weeks of assembly, said James Moorman, who is in charge of business development in the wind and renewable energy division of Connector.
“The movement in green energy is very strong, and we’re on the ground floor of it,” said Bill Boehm, chairman and chief executive officer of the company. Connector Manufacturing supplies the wind industry.
Connector Manufacturing, which has been in business for more than 30 years, makes connectors for meter and breaker boxes for the original equipment manufacturer, utility and wind industries, Moorman said.
The Hamilton facility has 180 employees, and the company also has locations in Alabama and Canada.
“We want to support an industry that’s supporting us,” Moorman said.
It has taken more than two years to get the Bergey brand windmill here. The proper tower, electric and structure permits had to be obtained, as well as Federal Aviation Administration approval.
Boehm said it cost more than $100,000.
The turbine, which contains parts manufactured by Connector, will produce 10,000 kilowatts and pay for itself in three to four years, Moorman said.
As for the next step, the manufacturer is already thinking solar power.
Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2551 or clevingston@coxohio.com.
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