Arevon Launches Eland 1 Solar-Storage Plant in California
- Arevon Energy launches the Eland 1 solar-plus-storage facility, igniting California's renewable future with 384 MW of solar power and 600 MWh of sustainable energy storage.
Arevon Energy Inc. has commenced operations at its Eland 1 solar-plus-storage facility in Kern County, California, featuring a 384-MWdc solar plant and a 150-MW/600-MWh battery energy storage system. Located in Mojave, Eland 1 is the first phase of the expansive Eland project, with Eland 2 expected to begin operations in the first quarter of 2025. Together, the two phases will rank among the largest solar-plus-storage installations in the U.S., boasting a total capacity of 758 MWdc of solar and 300 MW/1,200 MWh of storage, with capital costs exceeding $2 billion.
The engineering, procurement, and construction of the project were provided by SOLV Energy. Energy produced by Eland 1 will be sold to Southern California Public Power Authority through a long-term power purchase agreement, benefiting Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and Glendale Water and Power. Arevon plays a significant role in California's renewable energy landscape, with over 3,000 MW of operational capacity and an additional 700 MW currently under construction.
What are the key features and future plans for Arevon's Eland solar-plus-storage project?
Here are the key features and future plans for Arevon's Eland solar-plus-storage project:
Project Capacity:
- Eland 1 solar facility has a capacity of 384 MWdc.
- Eland 1 includes a 150-MW/600-MWh battery energy storage system, which allows for the storage of excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours for use during high-demand periods or when solar generation is low.
Location:
- Situated in the Mojave Desert, Kern County, California, the site is advantageous for solar generation due to high levels of sunlight and open land.
Future Expansion:
- Eland 2 is planned to begin operations in early 2025, which will further enhance the project's total capacity to 758 MWdc of solar power and 300 MW/1,200 MWh of storage.
Cost and Investment:
- The combined capital costs for both phases of the Eland project are expected to exceed $2 billion, emphasizing the scale and ambition behind this initiative.
Engineering and Construction Partners:
- SOLV Energy has been responsible for the engineering, procurement, and construction of the Eland project, reflecting a partnership with experienced contractors in the renewable energy sector.
Energy Offtake Agreements:
- Energy produced from Eland 1 will be sold to the Southern California Public Power Authority under a long-term power purchase agreement. This arrangement benefits multiple municipalities, including Los Angeles Department of Water and Power and Glendale Water and Power.
Contribution to California's Renewable Energy Goals:
- Arevon's Eland project aligns with California's ambitious renewable energy goals, including reaching 100% clean energy by 2045. The project is instrumental in augmenting the state’s energy supply with reliable solar and storage solutions.
Impact on Grid Stability:
- The incorporation of battery storage provides significant benefits for grid stability by enabling better management of energy supply and demand, thereby reducing the risk of blackouts and enhancing the reliability of the energy supply.
Precedent for Future Projects:
- As one of the largest solar-plus-storage installations in the U.S., the Eland project sets a precedent for future renewable energy projects, showcasing the viability and scalability of integrated solar and storage systems in meeting energy needs.
Environmental Benefits:
- The project is expected to contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel usage with clean energy deployment.
Community Engagement and Benefits:
- Arevon may prioritize community engagement initiatives and job creation during construction and operation phases, offering local employment opportunities and contributing to regional economic development.
Through the Eland project, Arevon Energy continues to play a pivotal role in advancing solar energy technology and integrating it with advanced storage solutions, fostering a more sustainable energy landscape in California and beyond.