The California Energy Commission (CEC), the US-based energy policy and planning agency, has approved the Darden Clean Energy Project by the clean energy firm Intersect Power under the state’s new accelerated permitting process.
The CEC said the project, which is said to be the US’s largest once built, will include a 1150MW solar photovoltaic (PV) facility with approximately 3.1 million panels and up to 4600MWh of battery storage.
The project is set to be located in western Fresno Country on 9,500 acres of retired agricultural land and will have enough storage to power 850,000 homes for four hours.
It will also be interconnected to the utility company Pacific Gas and Electric’s existing 2500kV transmission line.
The opt-in certification program involves the firm showing that the project will lead to community and economic benefits.
This includes $2 million in community investments and more than 2,000 construction jobs to support the local workforce during the one-and-a-half to three years of construction.
The program is seen as vital by the CEC to hit its target of 100% zero-carbon retail electric sales by 2045.
Noemí Gallardo, commissioner, CEC, said: “Today’s clean energy projects must do more than just deliver megawatts. They should create value in the communities where they’re built. This project exemplifies a community-focused approach that advances the state’s energy goals while creating benefits for local workers and residents.”
Gavin Newsom, Governor of California, said: “California is moving faster than ever before to build the clean energy we need – now with the world’s largest solar and battery project. With a record amount of clean energy capacity added last year, we’re creating jobs and supporting local communities – all while building a cleaner, more reliable power grid.”
Image: Commissioner Noemí Gallardo, who approved the Draden Clean Energy project. Credit: CEC.
