Turbines turning in the West Texas wind, generating electricity to be used by customers downstate (FCR Photo)
LOCKNEY, TX – The Lockney General Hospital District Board of Directors reviewed a proposed tax abatement for South Plains Wind Energy, LLC during a special meeting on November 19, signaling the start of a formal process that could bring major reinvestment in local wind infrastructure.
The repower project involves upgrading 100 existing wind turbines across Floyd County, 69 of which are located within the hospital district. CEO Vince DiFranco presented the new application, along with historical data prepared by Finance Director Travis Watkins, comparing current tax collections with abatements granted under the original 2013 agreement.
Attorney Bryan Guymon of the Underwood Law Firm outlined the legal steps required to consider the agreement. Floyd County is expected to approve the reinvestment zone on December 8. The hospital district will then hold a public hearing and consider formal guidelines at its December 10 meeting. A final vote on the proposed agreement is tentatively scheduled for January 28, 2026, following a 30-day public notice and notice to other taxing entities.
If approved, the project is expected to begin construction in late 2026 and start operations by the end of 2027.
No other business was discussed during the meeting. The session adjourned at 1:55 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled for December 10 at noon.
