Oregon's largest solar farm has successfully achieved commercial operation, marking a significant milestone in the state's transition towards clean energy. The Pachwáywit Fields solar farm, developed by AVANGRID, is capable of generating 162 MWac/205 MWdc of renewable energy to meet the needs of large customers and municipalities enrolled in Portland General Electric's (PGE) Green Future Impact program.
PGE has confirmed that the Pachwáywit Fields solar farm will support 17 of its largest customers, further highlighting the project's impact on the state's clean energy targets. The solar farm spans 1,223 acres in Gilliam County, and features 471,156 solar panels capable of generating enough electricity to power approximately 40,000 homes.
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Construction of the facility began in 2021, creating around 300 jobs in the process. The project also brought in $1.37 million in local taxes and property lease payments, providing a boost to the community. The name “Pachwáywit” pays homage to the rich history and stewardship of the Warm Springs and Umatilla Tribes, as the project is located on ceded lands of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs. Pronounced as “Patch-Why-Wit,” the word means “sun” in the Sahaptin language.
The successful completion of the Pachwáywit Fields solar farm marks a significant step towards achieving Oregon's clean energy goals, and is a testament to AVANGRID's commitment to sustainability. With solar energy playing an increasingly important role in meeting the world's energy needs, projects like this serve as a blueprint for a sustainable future.
