In the world’s push for more renewable and sustainable energy, there’s one tried and true alternative that continues to flourish – solar energy. As technology has advanced, solar projects across the globe have increased in size and impact, allowing for more companies and organizations to harness the power of clean energy. Given FischTank PR’s track record as a solar PR firm known for driving coverage of solar projects, technologies and insights – we keep a finger on the pulse of the industry.
Here’s a number of exciting solar projects and developments that made news in February 2023.
Somerset Solar Project Taking Shape – The Niagara Gazette
“AES Clean Energy is getting ready to apply to the state for permission to construct a 125 megawatt solar electric generating facility on a portion of the old coal-fired Somerset Generation Station off Lake Road. The company on Feb. 1 published a 60-day notice of intent to file an application with the state Office of Renewable Energy Siting (ORES).
The utility-scale Somerset Solar Project would cover about 700 acres, leased to AES Clean Energy by the landowner, Somerset Operating Company.
Mario Rice, AES Clean Energy development manager, said the company is looking to bid a contract with New York State Energy Research & Development Authority (NYSERDA) to sell the electricity it generates into the open market.”
McDonald’s Signs on for 180 MW of Louisiana Solar – pv magazine
A good solar PR firm can’t pass up an opportunity to mention McDonald’s, right?
“McDonald’s corporation announced it signed a power purchase agreement for the entire production of a 180 MW solar project in Louisiana. The Prairie Ronde solar project is expected to produce 327 GWh of electricity each year, equivalent to the energy demand of 30,700 U.S. homes.
In 2021, McDonald’s and eBay both reached agreements with Lightsource bp to purchase power from the 345 MW Ventress Solar project, which is slated to finish construction this year. Lifetime operations are estimated to generate a $30 million dollar boost to Pointe Coupee Parish.
McDonald’s aims for a 31% reduction in emissions intensity per metric ton of food and packaging across its supply chain by 2030 from 2015 levels.”
More Than 400 Community Solar Projects Proposed During Bid Process – NM Political Report
“The New Mexico Public Regulation Commission announced on Monday that companies have submitted more than 400 community solar applications.
The PRC has contracted with the independent administrator InClime for the community solar program and InClime will now evaluate the 440 applications that have been received. The applications include proposals for solar arrays in 19 counties.
Should all 440 be approved, it would result in 1,700 megawatts of solar power.”
Developers Accelerating Construction of Large-scale Solar Across Africa – pv magazine
“In 2022, if we consider installations for large-scale projects, commercial-industrial arrays, minigrids, and solar home systems (hence not accounting for residential installations):
- 30 countries in Africa have installed more than 1 MW
- 16 countries in Africa have installed more than 10 MW
- 2 countries in Africa have installed more than 100 MW
The country that led the charge in 2022 may be somewhat unexpected, but at the same time it is a perfect illustration of solar now reaching a new range of countries across Africa. With 284 MW, Angola was indeed the country where the most PV was installed in 2022. The top five also includes South Africa (111.8 MW), Egypt (80 MW), Ghana (71.3 MW), and Mozambique (41.9 MW).
The growing footprint of solar becomes even more impressive if we look at projects under development. If we consider projects that have been announced over the past 12 months, then 49 African countries are considered to be working on at least 1 MW of solar and 29 on more than 100 MW.”
Leaders Approve Large-scale Solar Farm Project in Florida – BIC Magazine
“Gainesville’s first large-scale solar project is one step closer to its moment in the sun.
The City Commission unanimously approved a contract amendment to the FL Solar 6 project, a 75-megawatt solar plant about 15 miles west of downtown Gainesville in 2024.
The amendment allows for an expansion of the plant and moves it further from its original location near the historic Black community in Archer.
FL Solar 6, commonly called Sand Bluff Solar, is the result of negotiations between Gainesville Regional Utilities and Origis Energy, a Miami-based solar power development company. The project will yield a facility that produces 75 megawatts of solar energy a day and 24 megawatts for energy storage, fast-tracking Gainesville to meet its goal to produce net-zero carbon emissions by 2045.”
New Solar Projects are Landing on Wisconsin’s Farmlands — and Not Everyone is Happy – Waunakee Tribune
“Since 2019, there have been 30 new solar projects proposed or brought online statewide, according to the Wisconsin Public Service Commission. Eight are operational while 11 are under construction. Another three have been approved by state regulators. Eight projects are being considered or expected to be proposed for state approvals.
The projects could create more than 4,000 megawatts of solar energy power statewide, according to the PSC.
Some of the solar farms face local opposition and concerns from neighbors and others in those communities who worry about impacts of fields of solar panels and other renewable energy equipment will have on property values, especially adjacent properties.”
BLM Approves Construction of Desert Quartzite Solar Project – Bureau of Land Management
“The Bureau of Land Management announces the start of construction of the Desert Quartzite solar project near Blythe in eastern Riverside County, advancing the Biden-Harris administration’s efforts to combat the climate crisis by supporting the development of renewable energy.
The Desert Quartzite solar project will result in a private infrastructure investment of $1 billion, power roughly 120,000 homes, and generate up to 900 jobs at peak construction.
The BLM manages vast stretches of public lands that have the potential to make significant contributions to the nation’s renewable energy portfolio. Renewable energy projects on our nation’s public lands support the Biden-Harris administration’s goal of a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035, as well as Congress’ direction in the Energy Act of 2020 to permit 25 gigawatts of solar, wind and geothermal production on public lands no later than 2025. Several companies have expressed interest in developing renewable energy projects on BLM-managed public lands in southern Idaho, due to the existing and planned transmission infrastructure.”
Want to learn more about our solar PR firm experience?
FischTank PR has provided solar PR firm services for several installers, developers, technology providers and financiers. We’ve helped publicize solar installations at churches, farms, universities, homes, parking lots, breweries (it was terrific), malls, office buildings and so many more. Please contact us at [email protected] to learn more about our solar PR firm services.
*Article written by intern Dillon Williams*
