Released on July 28, 2010

URV USA, a subsidiary of a Finnish supplier of cast iron wind turbine components, will build a new metalcasting facility in Eaton Rapids, Mich., according to a statement issued by Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm and the Michigan Economic Development Corp.

The new venture received Centers of Energy Excellence designation from the state and $3.5 million in funding from the Michigan Strategic Fund. URV will collaborate with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tenn., to develop a new, more cost effective casting process to produce its large, utility-scale wind turbine components. Michigan Technological Univ., Houghton, Mich., will assist with alloy development, casting gating system design and solidification simulation. The project will receive $4 million in matching funds from the U.S. Department of Energy.

“The wind energy sector offers a tremendous opportunity for job creation and economic growth in Michigan,” Granholm said. “We’re pleased that an innovative global firm is partnering with the excellent research and educational institutions we have in Michigan to develop and commercialize new technology.”

Astraeus Wind Energy Inc., Lansing, Mich., has committed to purchasing a large portion of URV’s initial output to fulfill existing and projected orders for machining large, utility-scale hubs and bedplates.