Bp begins construction on new Texas solar project

bp has initiated the construction of the Peacock Solar project, a substantial 187MWdc endeavor situated just 10 miles north of Corpus Christi in San Patricio County, Texas. This venture represents a significant stride towards supporting the global transition to lower carbon energy solutions.

Under a long-term power purchase agreement, Peacock will exclusively supply all the electricity it generates to Gulf Coast Growth Ventures (GCGV), a strategic collaboration between ExxonMobil and SABIC, both engaged in the production of materials essential for clothing, food packaging, agricultural film, and construction materials.

Positioned in close proximity to the GCGV complex, Peacock will directly provide power to the facility. Once the project reaches fruition, it will annually generate renewable energy equivalent to powering 34,000 homes.

Anticipated to generate approximately 300 jobs during its construction phase and contribute more than $25 million in tax revenue over its initial 25-year lifespan, this project signifies a significant economic and environmental endeavor.

Dave Lawler, Chairman and President of bp America, stated, "Securing this agreement and commencing the construction of Peacock helps support the transition to lower carbon energy, while benefiting local communities and the economy." He further emphasized bp's commitment to expanding its US solar generation capacity and advancing its transformation into an integrated energy company.

Paul Fritsch, President at GCGV, highlighted the environmental benefits, explaining, "Once online, the solar-generated electricity will be used to partially power our plant and help reduce emissions in support of a net-zero future."

The project's development and construction management are being handled by bp's 50:50 joint-venture partner, Lightsource bp, a global leader in solar energy. PCL Construction, the primary engineering, procurement, and construction contractor, will incorporate ultra-low carbon solar panels from First Solar and solar trackers from GameChange Solar, both US-based manufacturers.

Peacock will not only serve as a clean energy source but also contribute to biodiversity and agriculture initiatives. This includes planting native vegetation around the solar panels to benefit pollinators and wildlife, enhancing habitat value, soil health, and ecosystem functions, as well as introducing sheep grazing to support the local rural economy and maintain farmland productivity.

The Peacock Solar project aligns with bp's commitment to renewable energy growth, aiming to achieve 50 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030. This venture is expected to meet bp's projected returns for renewable power and plays a pivotal role in Texas, which ranks second in the nation for solar power. Texas is on the cusp of substantial growth, with over 40GW of capacity slated for installation in the next five years. Projects like Peacock are pivotal in diversifying the state's energy generation, enhancing grid security, and ensuring reliability.

Source:prnewswire.com