Brookfield Renewable Partners has announced plans for a groundbreaking 900 MW Speedway solar-plus-storage solar project in Grass Valley, Oregon.
Speedway Project: Major Carbon-Free Energy Facility
The Speedway Project solar power facility will include a battery energy storage system to improve the reliability and stability of the regional energy grid. Upon completion, the facility is expected to produce around 900 megawatts (MW) of carbon-free energy positioning it as one of the largest projects of its kind in the state.
The company has announced that it has submitted a Notice of Intent (NOI) to the Oregon Department of Energy for the development of the Speedway project. This project is strategically located near the Oregon Raceway just outside of Grass Valley. By strategically locating the facility near existing transmission infrastructure, the company aims to create one of the largest solar power plants in the United States while reducing the need for new power lines.
"We are pleased to deliver the NOI and take this significant step forward in developing the Speedway Project. We are grateful for the warm welcome we have received in Sherman County and look forward to building long-term relationships throughout the community," said John Soininen, vice president of development at Brookfield Renewable U.S
Solar Array Design to Preserve Agricultural Land
The project features a distinctive design where the solar array is arranged in "ribbons" along the periphery of current agricultural and wildlife corridors, enabling ongoing agricultural activities on the land. Speedway Solar is anticipated to cover approximately 4,500 to 6,000 acres.
Speedway Solar: Solar arrays blend with agriculture and wildlife corridors, preserving the landscape while generating clean energy.
“With Speedway, we want to preserve the county’s legacy of natural resource stewardship. By working with the landowners, we can reach our twin goals of decarbonizing the grid and maintaining the character of the region,” said John Soininen, vice president of development, Brookfield Renewables U.S.
Project to Boost Jobs and Local Economy
Besides its environmental advantages, the Speedway Project is anticipated to offer substantial economic benefits to Sherman County. During construction, it will generate hundreds of well-paying jobs and boost local economic activity. Once operational, it will provide lasting employment opportunities and contribute to the local tax base for shared priorities like firefighters, education and infrastructure.