Avangrid Begins Exporting Power from Camino Solar Project in California

Avangrid, Inc., an energy company under the Iberdrola Group, has begun exporting power from its Camino solar project in Kern County, California. This achievement comes ahead of the planned commercial operation of the 44 MWac plant, which is set to begin later this spring. The Camino project will deliver clean energy to California while stimulating the regional economy and benefiting households, businesses, and industries.

Milestone Achievement for Avangrid’s Camino Solar Project

Pedro Azagra, CEO of Avangrid, said, "First energy is always cause for celebration, and is a direct result of years of hard work developing and building a new project."

He added, "Camino will help meet a growing demand for power and support the region’s energy independence, while creating jobs and delivering key economic benefits.”

The Camino project includes the installation of around 105,000 solar panels, which went online late last year. The plant will produce as much electricity to supply about 14,000 homes a year. The Kern County $100 million Camino project employed 100 workers, who were predominantly local union construction workers.

Aside from creating local jobs, the project will contribute approximately $15 million in state and local taxes over its lifespan, otherwise benefiting public goods in the area.

Collaboration with Labor Unions

The project also involved significant contributions from Local 220 of LiUNA!, whose members worked alongside Avangrid’s contractors to complete the project on time and within budget. Hertz Ramirez, Business Manager for Local 220, highlighted that the construction work provided local apprentices and journeymen with valuable experience while earning competitive wages and benefits.

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Camino Solar Project to Join Avangrid’s Expanding Portfolio

Once operational, Camino will expand Avangrid's California portfolio, adding to the nearby 189 MW Manzana project completed in 2012. Camino will be Avangrid’s tenth solar project, joining six other California facilities with a combined capacity of over 500 MW.

Avangrid’s solar projects in California have generated $95 million in property taxes, benefiting vital public services in local communities.

The Camino project is part of Avangrid’s broader effort to expand its solar footprint across the United States. The company currently operates nearly 10.5 GW of installed capacity, with projects spanning multiple states.