Avangrid to build first solar facility in California
Avangrid announced plans to build its first solar project in California, the 57 MWdc, 44MWac Camino Solar project.
“We are thrilled to announce Camino Solar, a significant milestone for our company in California,” Pedro Azagra, Avangrid CEO, said. “This project further strengthens Avangrid’s commitment to developing the renewable projects needed to address climate change, while also contributing to the local economies in the communities in which we are present.”
The facility will be located in Kern County, adjacent to Avangrid’s 189 MW Manzana Wind farm. The project is expected to be commercially operational in 2025 and will generate roughly $15.5 million in local taxes during its lifetime.
Cupertino Electric has been tapped to construct the facility, which includes more than 105,000 solar panels. It will employ more than 100 people during construction.
“Cupertino Electric has built more than 40 renewable energy projects in Kern County, California, and we’re honored to be involved with Avangrid’s inaugural project in the area,” Chris Martin, vice president of operations, energy for Cupertino Electric, said. “Bringing clean energy to communities big and small is our specialty and why we’re ranked the largest solar and storage contractor in the U.S.”
Avangrid is the third largest renewable energy operator in the U.S. It currently operates more than 500 MW through six wind energy facilities in California.
