#United States #Phoenix #BrightNight #Cordelio Power #Box Canyon Solar

BrightNight and Cordelio Power's Box Canyon Solar Project

In a major milestone for renewable energy, BrightNight and Cordelio Power have announced the commercial operation of the Box Canyon Solar Project, a remarkable utility-scale solar endeavor boasting a capacity of 300 megawatts (MW). This project is not just a step forward for the companies involved; it represents the largest renewable energy procurement to date for the Southwest Public Power Agency (SPPA), marking a significant advancement in Arizona's clean energy landscape.

Situated approximately six miles north of Florence in Pinal County, Arizona, the Box Canyon Solar Project is part of a broader 2.5 gigawatt (GW) portfolio owned by the partnership of BrightNight and Cordelio Power. This project is particularly noteworthy as it is the first to move into commercial operation within this extensive portfolio, demonstrating the efficiency and commitment of BrightNight to meet the pressing demands of modern power infrastructure.

BrightNight led the project’s development under a collaborative venture with Cordelio Power, showcasing their capability to spearhead large-scale clean energy initiatives. Notably, the collaboration has also integrated a tax equity investment from J.P. Morgan and Capital One, transitioning the project’s financial structure from construction debt to a more stable term loan, which is crucial for the sustainable long-term operation of the project.

With its completion, the Box Canyon Solar Project is expected to have a substantial economic impact. An analysis performed by Elliott Pollack and Associates estimates that the project yielded around $47 million during its construction phase while also generating over 300 jobs for the local community. As it progresses into full operational status, the anticipated local economic benefits could rise to an impressive $134 million over its operational lifespan. This figure encompasses property taxes, wages, and other financial contributions, bringing the total economic output to exceed $180 million for Pinal County.

The project is also projected to contribute more than $65 million through land lease payments to the Arizona Land Trust, which funds crucial services such as K-12 education, state hospitals, and various public services. In a commendable community initiative, Box Canyon is set to allocate a portion of its funds to provide scholarships for 50 students to enroll in the electrician program at Central Arizona College over the next five years.

Dennis Delaney, SPPA's Project Manager, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, emphasizing the seamless integration of BrightNight’s solutions which align with SPPA's long-term goals while ensuring delivery on time and within budget. He stated, “We are thrilled to supply our members with our clean, safe, and reliable electricity sourced from the Box Canyon Solar Project.”

BrightNight's CEO, Martin Hermann, highlighted the vital importance of the project to the region's burgeoning industrial landscape. “At an expected annual production of 915,000 MWh, this project will deliver reliable and accessible clean energy for over 40 years, further facilitating economic development and job creation in the area,” he elaborated. The Box Canyon Solar Project stands as a testament to BrightNight's expansive 35 GW energy portfolio throughout the United States, strategically designed to cater to the increasing needs of areas undergoing significant growth driven by industrialization and technological advancements.

successfully completed in just 15 months, the project illustrates not only BrightNight’s capacity to deliver quality renewable energy solutions with precision but also their commitment towards leading the charge in sustainable energy reform across the country.

About BrightNight

BrightNight is a pioneering power and digital solutions provider, focusing on the evolving requirements of utilities, commercial, and industrial clients. With a robust portfolio of high-performance power projects, the company is committed to delivering sustainable, dispatchable energy solutions adapted to rapidly changing market dynamics. Their advanced approach to integrating utility-scale renewables with gas generation and energy storage optimizes energy reliability and drives down operational costs.

For more details on BrightNight’s initiatives and projects, visit BrightNight.

About Cordelio Power

Cordelio Power is an independent energy producer with a diverse portfolio encompassing solar, wind, and energy storage projects across North America. As a dedicated advocate for environmental sustainability, Cordelio is committed to delivering energy solutions that align with community needs and ecological considerations.

Further insights into Cordelio Power can be found at Cordelio.