Champion International To Build Gas Turbine At Bucksport Paper Mill

Champion International Corp., a manufacturer of lightweight-coated papers, has entered into an agreement with Bucksport Energy LLC to construct and operate a 174 MW, natural gas-fired turbine generator at Bucksport's paper mill in Bucksport, ME. The turbine will provide low-cost electricity and steam to the mill and eliminate the use of coal as a fuel, reducing air emissions by half. The generator is expected to start up in October 2000.

Under the agreement, Champion (28%) and Bucksport Energy (72%) will co-own the project. Bucksport Energy will be responsible for the design, financing and construction of the facility and for the sale of electricity from the turbine to customers in Maine and elsewhere in New England. Champion will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the plant.