#United States #solar energy #California #EDP Renewables #Scarlet II

EDP Renewables Expands Solar Capacity with Scarlet II

EDP Renewables North America LLC (EDPR NA) has proudly announced the inauguration of its 200 megawatt (MW) Scarlet II Solar Energy Park located in Fresno County, California. This new addition comes on the heels of the successful launch of Scarlet I, which consists of 200 MW of solar power and 40 MW/160 MWh of battery energy storage that became operational in 2024. The launch of Scarlet II signifies not just an expansion of solar energy but also a significant infiltration into the renewable energy landscape of California.

Increased Energy Storage and Resilience

Scarlet II doesn’t just stop at generating solar power. This project is accompanied by a 150 MW/600 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), bringing added resilience and reliability to the electric grid. The solar power generated through Scarlet II will be contracted for the next 15 years via a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA), ensuring a steady supply of renewable energy.

Moreover, additional Resource Adequacy (RA) contracts with Ava Community Energy and San José Clean Energy have been established to ensure that enough capacity is available to meet customers' energy needs while maintaining the stability of the grid. California's Resource Adequacy Program plays a crucial role in ensuring that load-serving entities are able to meet consumer demand, thus safeguarding the electricity supply.

Empowering Local Communities

The Scarlet II project demonstrates a strong commitment to local communities and sustainability. It is expected to generate sufficient energy to power approximately 68,000 homes annually in California. Furthermore, local economic benefits are anticipated, including significant tax contributions to local governments and a boost to local businesses, ranging from gas stations to restaurants. With over 140 construction jobs created during its development, the project also emphasizes job growth as a crucial element of renewable energy expansion.

“After our successful launch of Scarlet I, we are thrilled to add Scarlet II to our portfolio and build on our record of delivering energy reliability and resiliency for Fresno County and the Golden State,” stated Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDP Renewables North America. The community has shown strong support for these initiatives, reflecting the positive impact of such projects on local economies.

Commitment to Sustainability

EDPR NA is also dedicated to environmental sustainability, as evidenced by its Close the Loop Program, which is designed to recycle materials used in the construction process. In this endeavor, over 1,700 tons of materials were recycled, averaging over 60% of total construction materials, further solidifying the project's commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

Beyond the Scarlet II project, EDP Renewables maintains a significant presence across California, with over 1.1 GW of operational capacity that includes solar, wind, and storage projects. Their leadership in renewable energy is reflected through expansions at various sites, including the two phases of the Scarlet Solar Energy Park, multiple installations at the Rising Tree Wind Farm, and several others.

Looking Ahead

As EDP Renewables North America continues to innovate and expand its renewable project portfolio, the Scarlet II Solar Energy Park stands as a testament to the company's strategic growth and dedication to sustainability. The initiative is crucial not only for advancing renewable energy but also for supporting local economies, creating job opportunities, and maintaining environmental reliability for communities across California. With its focus firmly set on a sustainable future, EDP Renewables is poised to be a leader in the transition to renewable energy.

For further details and insights about EDP Renewables, you can visit their official website or follow their updates on social media platforms.