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Mariah Power, a wind technology company, is opening its first high-volume wind turbine (Windspire) manufacturing facility in Manistee, Michigan. The facility will bring more than 120 jobs to Manistee over the next three years. Manufacturing will take place in a retrofitted auto parts automation manufacturing facility and will employ former auto industry workers who have prior experience working with steel, building auto assembly lines and auto robotics.
A grand opening celebration will be held at the Manistee facility on April 20th. Festivities include plant tours, scheduled remarks from Michigan's Governor Jennifer Granholm, and free community celebration with food and music.
Michigan's jobless rate has been progressively increasing over the past few months, with the current unemployment rate at 12.6 percent. Much of the state's unemployment is due to the failing auto industry. The opening of the wind turbine manufacturing facility is a positive turnaround for Michigan's economy. As part of Michigan's Green Jobs Initiative, the state is increasing its efforts to move Michigan into the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Industries. Through increased partnerships with employers such as Mariah Power, and other economic development partners, the state is positioning itself to lead the country. The Manistee wind turbine facility is reported to begin operations with 30 new employees and will produce 100 wind turbines per month with the number potentially growing to 1,000 wind turbines per month. Materials for the turbines, such as steel and aluminum, will also be supplied by local Michigan companies.
"As we continues our efforts to diversity and grow our state's economy, we are proud to celebrate the opening of the Windspire manufacturing facility and the new energy jobs this will create in northern Michigan," said Governor Granholm. "This investment puts us at the forefront in the production of renewable energy to end U.S. dependence on foreign oil and fossil fuels."
The Windspire is the first product from Mariah Power. It is an economical, plug-in wind power appliance that provides a low maintenance and attractive method for harnessing power from the wind. The turbines stand 30 feet tall with 2 feet in radius and are designed for use at residences or businesses. In fact, to coincide with the plant opening, a Windspire will be installed at the governor's residence in Lansing, Michigan.
For more information about the grand opening of the facility and Windspire technology, visit http://www.mariahpower.com.
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