POCATELLO -- A wind turbine maker with offices in the United States and Europe has decided to open a new manufacturing plant in Pocatello.

Executives with Nordic Windpower Ltd. announced plans Monday to hire more than 160 employees for a facility in the city's Gateway Industrial Park.

Company officials anticipate production of 20 turbines per month by September 2009.

Chief Operating Officer Steve Taber says the company likes Pocatello for its experienced work force and quality of life.

Nordic's turbines differ from competitors in that it specializes on two-bladed turbines instead of the standard three-blade versions.

Nordic Windpower also has facilities in California, the United Kingdom and Sweden.