Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions (DESS), the unregulated commercial brand of Duke Energy, now operates the largest solar farm, the 250 MW Pisgah Ridge Solar project in Navarro County, Texas.
Charles River Laboratories International Inc., a leading provider of research tools and integrated support services for drug discovery and development, has entered into a virtual power purchase agreement for a 102 MW project over the next 15 years. This commitment covers the company’s entire North American electric power load.
Midwestern retailer Meijer signed a separate 15-year VPPA for 83 MW, and one other unnamed company has a third 15-year VPPA.
Together, these three contracts make up more than 90% of the plant’s production. All three VPPAs are calculated as generated, which is tied to the real-time energy production of the project.
“We are excited to continue growing our Texas solar portfolio,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions. “This project demonstrates how we can continue to expand renewable energy resources while providing unique sustainability solutions for commercial customers.”
Moss was responsible for the design and construction of the project, while Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions owns and operates the facility. The project employed approximately 300 workers during peak construction periods.
