Savion, a solar developer, and Toyota, the automobile giant, have entered into a significant agreement for a 100MW solar PV virtual power purchase in Kentucky, USA. The project involves the conversion of a former coal mine located in Martin County, which lies on the border between Kentucky and West Virginia. Savion, along with local solar developer Edelen Renewables, will develop the solar PV plant on this brownfield site.
The construction of the project is scheduled to commence in mid-2023, with commercial operations anticipated to begin in 2024. This initiative aligns with the ongoing efforts in the United States to decarbonize its energy sector and close down remaining coal plants. By repurposing former coal sites for solar projects, developers can make use of existing infrastructure, such as transmission lines, while providing clean energy to the grid.
The development of solar projects on brownfield sites holds particular importance as the US Treasury Department recently issued guidance on the incentives available under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) for coal community projects. These incentives aim to facilitate the transition and revitalization of former energy communities, offering opportunities for renewable energy development.
Savion has been actively engaged in various sustainable projects. In addition to the recently signed agreement with Toyota, the company has also secured a supply agreement with thin-film manufacturer First Solar earlier this year. This agreement entails the purchase of 2.6GW of Series 7 modules, which are expected to be delivered between 2025 and 2027.
See also: Toyota Selects Kaneka's Solar Cells for Use in Its Electric Vehicles' Roofs
David Absher, the Senior Manager of Environmental Sustainability at Toyota Motor North America, emphasized the importance of expanding access to renewable power for large-scale energy buyers in the United States. He highlighted that the conversion of brownfield sites, like the former coal mine in Martin County, presents a viable solution for former energy communities to leverage existing infrastructure and contribute clean energy to the grid.
This collaboration between Savion and Toyota demonstrates the growing commitment of major corporations to renewable energy procurement and sustainability initiatives. As the transition to cleaner energy sources gains momentum, partnerships like these will play a crucial role in accelerating the development of renewable projects and supporting the decarbonization goals of the United States.
