Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE) has marked a significant milestone with the completion of the 179 MW White Wing Ranch solar project in Yuma County, Arizona.
White Wing Ranch Solar: Yuma County’s Renewable Energy Future
Spanning roughly 1,400 acres of private land near Dateland and Hyder, the White Wing Ranch solar facility connects to the bulk electric grid via the 500 kV Hoodoo Wash Switchyard.
This key transmission hub ensures the effective distribution of clean energy.
The project is the first of several planned by LRE in Yuma County, paving the way for a regional surge in renewable energy development.
This project underscores LRE’s commitment to using local resources to build a strong clean energy foundation in Arizona. The strategy aims to position Yuma County as a leader in the state’s renewable sector, demonstrating both strategic investment and sustainable growth.
“We are pleased to begin operations at White Wing Ranch and support Verizon’s sustainability goals. We are excited for the future of renewable energy in the region and are committed to contributing meaningfully to the community throughout the lifespan of the project,” said Jason Allen, CEO of LRE.
Advancing Solar Projects With Series 7 Modules
White Wing Ranch is the first project to use First Solar’s Series 7 photovoltaic modules, a major leap forward in solar technology. Made in America, these panels offer greater energy efficiency and a smaller carbon footprint than traditional crystalline silicon panels. Their design also enhances energy output and durability, contributing to the project’s long-term sustainability and performance.
During construction, LRE also incorporated Terabase Energy’s Terafab technology. This innovative system uses automated tools and assembly methods to streamline the installation process, resulting in a quicker, more cost-efficient deployment of the solar infrastructure.
This approach underscores LRE’s commitment to enhancing the efficiency and scalability of its renewable projects.
Boosting the Local Economy With Renewable Energy
At its peak, the White Wing Ranch project generated over 200 construction jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Beyond initial employment, the project offers long-term economic benefits, including increased property tax revenues that will support local government services and education in Yuma County. This influx of revenue illustrates the potential for renewable energy projects to drive regional development.
The successful launch of White Wing Ranch represents a key milestone in LRE’s larger goals for Arizona and beyond. The company plans to build on this success with more solar projects in Yuma County, leveraging the region’s abundant sunlight and ideal geographic conditions.
This strategy is part of a broader initiative to strengthen the U.S. clean energy grid with reliable, emission-free power.