YARMOUTH, Maine DeLorme, the innovation leader in mapping, GIS, and GPS technology, is pleased to announce that its XMap GIS software has been selected by UPC Wind Management, LLC to help with the optimal placement of wind turbines.

XMap is an affordable, easy-to-use mapping and GIS software suite that integrates advanced geospatial data management into DeLorme's core GPS mapping framework. It provides easy-to-use GIS functionality that is especially well suited for new GIS users.

Using the 3-D terrain modeling capability found in XMap, UPC technicians are able to remotely evaluate locations for turbine placement eliminating laborious and time-consuming field work.

By integrating existing GIS data layers, UPC technicians are able to compile a more complete picture of a site in question, with layers such as property ownership, wind patterns, and land cover. Ultimately the availability of such a variety of information allows UPC to accurately determine the suitability of a particular site.

With XMap’s included in-vehicle GPS navigation capability, UPC field crews can quickly and efficiently find their way to the work site. They can even add routable roads to the base map to reflect new construction around a wind farm project.

“XMap is ideally suited to our workflow,” said Chris Caffyn, Development Manager at UPC. “It offers the right combination of mapping tools and is straightforward enough that all of our staff can use it.”

To help streamline the deployment of XMap, UPC participated in a customized online training program. A training specialist from DeLorme provided instruction on the use of XMap and how it specifically relates to wind turbine placement.

“The training program provided the introduction that we needed to get up and running with the software,” added Caffyn. “It helped to learn how the software will help us meet the challenges that we face.”

Located in Yarmouth, Maine, DeLorme has 30 years of cartographic and software experience and over 130 employees dedicated to creating the best in mapping, GIS, and GPS products. DeLorme digital products are rooted in the DeLorme XMap development platform, which is scalable for future growth and endorsed by millions of dedicated digital mapping software users worldwide. The DeLorme business model transforms innovative technologies into affordable and easy-to-use navigation and mapping products. For more information, visit www.xmap.com

UPC Wind is based in Newton, Massachusetts, with offices in Maine, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, California, Oregon, and Hawaii. UPC Wind is an American-owned company, with a proven track record of developing, owning and operating well-sited, community-friendly wind farms that increase energy independence. Additional information on UPC can be found at www.upcwind.com