US renewable energy company Invenergy has announced the successful commencement of commercial operations at its pioneering Calhoun Solar Energy Center. This 200MW solar project marks Invenergy's debut venture in the state of Michigan and bolsters its position in the region's burgeoning renewable energy sector.
The Calhoun Solar Energy Center reached financial closure in September 2021, with initial projections for construction completion by the end of 2022. Despite some delays, the project now stands as a significant addition to Invenergy's renewable portfolio, which already includes a 708MW wind power portfolio operational within the state.
Invenergy's Vice President of Development, Erin Kricher, expressed pride in the company's successful track record of project development in Michigan, emphasizing their commitment to delivering clean, reliable electricity while fostering the growth of the local clean energy economy.
Under various power purchase agreements, Invenergy has secured off-takers for the solar power generated by the Calhoun project. Consumers Energy has committed to purchasing 140MW of energy, the Michigan Public Power Agency has signed up for 50MW, and the Lansing Board of Water and Light will acquire 10MW. This collaboration ensures seamless integration of the new project's electricity into Michigan's power grid.
In addition to the recent milestone at the Calhoun Solar Energy Center, Invenergy made headlines earlier this year with Blackstone Infrastructure's US$1 billion investment, boosting the asset manager's total investment in Invenergy to US$4 billion. This infusion of capital has emboldened Invenergy's plans to expand its solar operations across the United States.
Currently, Invenergy is actively working on its Hardin II and Hardin III solar projects in Ohio, boasting a combined capacity of 470MW. Furthermore, the company anticipates that its 280MW Fountain Point solar project will commence operations next year. In total, Invenergy's ambitious pipeline includes 14 solar projects under development across the US, collectively possessing a capacity of just over 3TW. These projects also aim to capitalize on the growing workforce in the US solar sector.
As Invenergy takes firm strides in contributing to America's transition to clean energy, the completion of the Calhoun Solar Energy Center stands as a testament to the company's dedication to sustainable power development and its commitment to fostering a greener future for the country.
