Decker Energy International has broad experience in acquiring and improving existing power generating facilities.  Through effective management, operational improvements and contract restructurings, we have a demonstrated ability to turn troubled projects into reliable, profitable businesses.

Our Cadillac Renewable Energy project in Michigan is a good example of this business strategy.  When acquired in 1997, we renegotiated two major agreements to enhance value.  First, the power purchase agreement was changed from a must-run to a dispatchable contract, a win-win situation for the project and Consumers Energy, the purchasing utility.  Second, the project financing was renegotiated to reflect a proven operating facility with more creditworthy owners.  Operationally, we significantly lowered fuel cost through more aggressive purchasing practices.  These changes converted a marginal project into a solidly profitable operation.

An especially innovative effort was the turnaround of the 110 megawatt natural gas-fired Mid-Continent Power Company in Pryor, Oklahoma.  We acquired this highly troubled plant which had many problems, including poor operations, one unfavorable power purchase agreement and a second attractive one, an overpriced gas transportation agreement, employee morale issues and the need to replace asbestos insulation.  We converted this facility into a profitable operation through new investment in capital improvements, including asbestos abatement; better operations management; restructuring the power purchase agreements; arranging gas transportation with a new pipeline company; and refinancing.

In 2004 we acquired a 50% interest in Craven County Wood Energy, a smooth running biomass facility which was nearing the end of its original QF power purchase agreement.  We have worked to reduce expenses, including agreeing on lower property taxes with the local government, and have negotiated power sales agreements to sell into thePJM market, including a wheeling agreement with Progress Energy.