Ludington’s Pumped Storage Plant Generates Electricity
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are generating electricity for Ludington and West Michigan!
Photo by Todd and Brad Reed Photography
Lake Winds Energy Park
The landscape of farm land in Mason County has drastically changed. Within Riverton and Summit townships, Consumers Energy has finished erecting 56 wind turbine generators, called the Lake Winds Energy Park. This 100 megawatt facility began operations on Thanksgiving Day, 2012; providing employment, economic, and tax benefits to the area.
Lake Winds Energy Park Wind Turbines
Location
Consumers Energy secured more than 16,000 acres south of Ludington and east of the current Ludington Pumped Storage Plant, also owned by Consumers. Mason County was chosen partly due to the positive wind force off Lake Michigan and also because of the wind ordinance here that ensures public safety. A wind analysis was conducted by Consumers Energy and it was determined that Riverton and Summit townships held the most potential for wind production.
Facts About the Park
Wind farms are basically a cluster of wind turbines that capture the wind and convert it to electricity. The 56 turbines in Lake Winds Energy Park are 476′ in height providing 100 megawatts of energy. Parts for the turbines arrived in Mason County via railroad and truck and were stored at the former Harbison-Walker plant on Pere Marquette Highway before being moved to their permanent location by tractor trailer. Wind power is seen by some to be the energy source of the future, and helps offset emissions of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases. It is estimated that this project will bring $33 million directly and indirectly to Mason County, along with 150 construction jobs.
Ludington Pumped Storage Plant
Also owned and operated by Consumers Energy, the Ludington Pumped Storage Plant is an amazing sight to see. Read our Pumped Storage Plant story here.
Explore More Trails & Tours!
Mason County Barn Quilt Trail
The Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
Fall Color Tour
Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.
Trail Guide for Ludington State Park
The Ludington State Park trails are as varied as they are beautiful. Hike or bike 18 miles of eight marked trails with information kiosks.
Trails and Tours
Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
The Baby Badger
A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.
Murals of Ludington
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.
Mason County Agricultural Trail
Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.
Ludington Area Jaycees Mini Golf
Putt putt for a purpose by visiting the Ludington Area Jaycees Mini Golf Course in Stearns Park, right on Lake Michigan.
Ludington Has Two Lighthouses!
Ludington visitors flock to the area to view our two majestic lighthouses, the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
Festivals & Events
There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.
