rPlus Energies has recently secured over $1 billion in construction debt financing for a colossal solar power and energy storage project in Utah.
The Green River Energy Center project will boast 400 MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity and 400 MW/1,600 MWh of battery storage, making it the largest planned facility of its kind in the state.
Setting New Standards in Energy Storage
This project surpasses the scale of previous solar and energy storage ventures, including a 255 MW/1,020 MWh project in Arizona and a 185 MW/565 MWh project in Hawaii.
With its impressive 400 MW/1,600 MWh capacity, the Green River Energy Center sets a new benchmark for energy storage projects in the United States.
Q&A with rPlus Energies President Luigi Resta
CleanTechnica conducted a Q&A session with rPlus Energies President Luigi Resta to delve into the specifics of this groundbreaking project:
Q: Where will the solar panels be located, and will they be ground-mounted?
A: The solar PV panels will be located in Emery County, Utah, and will all be ground-mounted on single-axis trackers.
Q: What will the solar power be used for?
A: The generated solar power will be supplied to the grid to meet the energy needs of PacifiCorp.
Q: How will the energy storage project be utilized upon completion?
A: The 400 MW/1,600 MWh energy storage project will provide “dispatchable” energy to the grid, enabling the storage of solar energy for later delivery.
Q: Are the battery systems housed in containers similar to those used in shipping?
A: Yes, the batteries are fully containerized and arrive on-site pre-assembled and ready for immediate integration. They are manufactured in a U.S. factory.
Q: What battery chemistry is used in the energy storage system?
A: The batteries utilize lithium-ion chemistry, specifically lithium ferrous phosphate (LFP).
Q: What is the expected lifespan of the energy storage project?
A: The battery system is contracted for 20 years, and the design is engineered to exceed that timeframe.
Q: What is the total project cost for the solar and energy storage components?
A: The total project cost is approximately $1 billion, aligning with the press release regarding debt financing.
Q: How much land will the battery systems occupy after installation?
A: The battery energy storage system (BESS) will cover roughly 15 acres.
Q: How many jobs will be created during the installation and operational phases?
A: Up to 500 jobs are anticipated during the construction phase. Once operational, the site will require a team of approximately 10 staff for regular and periodic maintenance.
Q: What does routine maintenance entail for the solar and battery systems?
A: Routine maintenance includes regular inspections of electrical equipment like inverters and high-voltage substations, as well as battery units. The site is monitored 24/7 via specialized telemetry to ensure proper functioning and identify any issues that need addressing.
Q: Can the batteries be recycled at the end of their lifespan?
A: Yes, the batteries can be recycled.