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The giant ABB concern has shown another indication of its growing involvement in wind energy, this time in Greece where it is co-operating with German wind developer Windsolar on proposals for some 300 MW of wind projects. Windsolar's Greek subsidiary, Windsolar Hellas, has lodged applications with the Greek Regulatory Authority of Energy (RAE) for permits to build a number of wind stations averaging 15 MW and totalling about 300 MW.

The company approached ABB to be the turnkey contractor and clinched the deal in just three weeks, according to Windsolar's Bungo Ezawa. ABB, which will also build the electrical infrastructure, accounts for about 80% of project volume and Windsolar 20%.

Most of the projects are slated for sites in the Lakonia and Messini regions on Peloponnisos, others are on the islands of Evia and Andros. Wind measurements and site acquisition by Windsolar Hellas began about two years ago. Planning documents refer to 750 kW NEG Micon turbines, though the company stresses it has made decisions about the supplier. "Difficult terrain prohibits the use of larger machines," says Cosman Fessas of WindSolar Hellas.

The liberalisation of the Greek electricity market in mid February triggered a power rush in which wind figured greatly. More than 10,000 MW of applications were lodged to the RAE by different companies, though only up to 2500 MW is likely to be authorised, sources say. RAE is expected to award contracts by late summer.