EBMUD Unveils 4.6-MW Solar Farm in Orinda

• EBMUD partners with TotalEnergies to launch 4.6-MW solar farm in Orinda, saving $26 million in energy costs over 25 years. A bright future for renewable energy!

The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) in California has officially launched a 4.6-MW solar farm in Orinda, in partnership with TotalEnergies SE. The solar farm, located below Briones Reservoir, is expected to generate around 10 GWh of electricity annually, helping EBMUD offset 10% of its current energy costs.

TotalEnergies designed and constructed the 12-acre Orinda solar farm, which will supply electricity to EBMUD under a 25-year power purchase agreement. The utility estimates that the fixed price established in the agreement will result in $26 million in energy cost savings for ratepayers over the contract's lifespan. This initiative marks a significant step towards renewable energy adoption and cost savings for EBMUD and its customers.

How will EBMUD's new solar farm partnership with TotalEnergies benefit ratepayers?

• The partnership with TotalEnergies will help EBMUD reduce its reliance on traditional energy sources, leading to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy mix.
• By generating a portion of its electricity from solar power, EBMUD can stabilize its energy costs and potentially lower rates for ratepayers in the long run.
• The 25-year power purchase agreement ensures that EBMUD will benefit from fixed energy prices, protecting ratepayers from potential fluctuations in the energy market.
• The $26 million in energy cost savings over the contract's lifespan will directly benefit ratepayers by reducing the overall cost of providing water and wastewater services.
• The Orinda solar farm will contribute to EBMUD's goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2040, demonstrating the utility's commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.