Controlled explosions used to demolish old wind turbines in northeast Lincoln [Video]

LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) – Lincoln Electric System announced that two wind turbines have been removed after nearly 25 years of operation.

LES started the preparation process of the demolition midway through June and removed the wind turbines Tuesday morning.

The first turbine collapsed due to a controlled explosion at its base. Shortly afterward, the second turbine fell due to its own controlled explosion.

“We didn’t want to draw the public to the area when explosive materials were being used. The safety of our employees and our community is always our top priority,” LES Manager of Resource and Transmission Planning Scott Benson said. “Emergency personnel and community partners were notified of the felling before it happened. Everything went safely and as planned.”

Both the turbines were built 290 feet tall and were LES’ first investment in wind.

The turbines were removed as it was reaching full maturity and is also expected …