The Black Cherry Wind Project is a proposed wind energy project under development in southeast McKean County that will deliver emissions-free, American-made power to Pennsylvania at a cost-effective and stable price while helping the Commonwealth meet the growing demand for electricity.
Black Cherry Wind is dedicated to ongoing engagement with local leaders and the host communities and working collaboratively with all stakeholders to address local concerns.
Black Cherry Wind
Responsible Development
Safety is our top priority. From the earliest stages of a project through construction and operations, we adhere to the highest industry and engineering standards to ensure the safety of workers, the public, and the environment. We will follow state and local regulations to responsibly site Black Cherry Wind while protecting tourism, hunting and the county’s natural charm.
Jobs
Black Cherry Wind is expected to create up to 300 construction jobs and 18–25 long-term jobs over its operational life. We are committed to keeping these jobs local and further enhancing the local economic impact by purchasing equipment and materials from Pennsylvania-based suppliers when feasible in all phases – development, construction, and operation.
Community Investment
Black Cherry Wind will be an economic driver for the region. The project will generate millions of dollars in new tax revenues, which will directly benefit local schools and provide McKean County with substantial resources to direct towards public safety, road upgrades, and infrastructure improvements. Further, we have committed to establishing Community Benefits Agreements with participating townships, through which we will pay $125,000 to each host township annually. This money can be used to support local initiatives and enhance resources for McKean County residents.
Decommissioning
Black Cherry Wind will comply with all jurisdictional requirements regarding decommissioning. Within 12 months from the end of operations, we will remove all project infrastructure up to 36 inches below grade and restore the land back to pre-construction conditions. Our lease agreements commit us to providing Decommissioning Security, ensuring that host communities and landowners bear no financial responsibility for decommissioning or restoration at the end of the project’s life.
Safety
Black Cherry Wind is committed to using ADLS (Aircraft Detection Lighting System) with FAA approval, ensuring that turbine lights remain off unless an aircraft enters project airspace within 3NM horizontally and within 1,000 ft vertically of the tallest structure. For wildlife protection, the project expects to participate in the PA Gaming Commission’s voluntary cooperation framework, which includes seasonal self-curtailment during migratory bird/bat periods.
Show Your Support for the Black Cherry Wind Project!
Your voice matters! Show your support for the Black Cherry Wind Project by letting your elected officials know that you stand behind clean energy, job creation, and community development. The benefits of this project will be felt for generations to come, and together we can ensure that McKean County thrives sustainably. Speak up today and be part of the positive change!