Gilliam County is set to benefit from the development of the Odyssey Wind project, as Cordelio Energy, a growing renewable energy company, moves forward with plans to establish wind energy infrastructure in the region. During the Gilliam County Court Regular Meeting on December 18, 2024, a representative from Cordelio introduced the project, highlighting its potential to enhance local energy resources and create lasting community relationships.

The Odyssey Wind project is currently in the early stages, with Cordelio working on securing leases with landowners and developing an interconnection plan to connect the wind farm to the electrical grid. The company has already signed leases for approximately 30,000 acres in the southern part of Gilliam County. The representative emphasized the importance of collaboration with local officials to navigate the complexities of interconnecting to existing transmission lines.

Cordelio Energy, which operates with a workforce of 132 employees across the U.S. and Canada, is backed by the Canada Pension Plan, providing a stable financial foundation for its projects. Unlike many larger companies that sell off projects after construction, Cordelio commits to owning and operating its projects throughout their lifespan, fostering long-term relationships with the communities they serve.

The company is exploring options to utilize existing county road right-of-ways to facilitate the connection to Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) transmission lines. This approach aims to minimize disruption while maximizing efficiency in bringing renewable energy to the region.

As the project progresses, Cordelio plans to engage further with Gilliam County officials to ensure that the development aligns with local needs and infrastructure capabilities. The commitment to community involvement and sustainable energy solutions positions the Odyssey Wind project as a significant opportunity for Gilliam County's future energy landscape.