Oregon has recently approved the Sunstone Solar project, which is poised to become the largest solar farm in the United States. Spanning approximately 10,000 acres in Morrow County, this initiative marks a significant advancement in the state’s commitment to sustainability.
Solar Panel Details
Sunstone Solar is set to deploy nearly 4 million solar panels, producing 1,200 megawatts of clean, emission-free energy. This amount of power is sufficient to supply around 800,000 households annually.
Regulatory Challenges
Ben Catt, the CEO of Pine Gate Renewables, highlighted the stringent regulations Oregon enforces regarding energy projects. The state is diligent in safeguarding prime agricultural land, which necessitates that solar farms demonstrate tangible benefits to the local community to gain approval. However, projects like Sunstone receive the green light when they can substantiate their advantages.
Future Investments
Construction is slated to commence in 2026, with Pine Gate intending to invest over $1,000 per acre to assist local farmers. Additionally, they are allocating roughly $11 million into a fund dedicated to supporting the wheat farming sector in the region, ensuring that Morrow County’s agricultural future remains robust and sustainable.
U.S. Senator Ron Wyden emphasized the significance of this project in combating climate change. He cited it as a prime example of the federal investments fostered by the Inflation Reduction Act and vowed to continue advocating for policies that bolster clean energy innovation across the nation.
Pine Gate’s Experience
Pine Gate Renewables is no stranger to Oregon’s renewable energy landscape, already managing 17 other solar projects within the state. In 2022, the company acquired Sunstone Solar from Gallatin Power Partners, thereby reinforcing its position in the market.
Aligning with State Goals
The initiative also coincides with Oregon’s ambitious objective of sourcing all its electricity from clean sources by 2040 and eradicating pollution associated with energy generation.
Once operational, Sunstone Solar will link to the power grid through the Bonneville Power Administration and the Umatilla Electric Cooperative. Engineering and procurement activities are scheduled to commence in early 2025, with construction set to begin in phases starting in 2026.
