Lightsource bp completed its construction on the 187-megawatt Peacock Solar in San Patricio County, Texas. It will deliver direct renewable power to the region’s manufacturing complex: Gulf Coast Growth Ventures. That will help spur the global energy transition toward lower-carbon emissions. Over the course of the construction period, more than 300 on-site jobs were created; and more than $25 million in tax revenue will be brought into the local economy over the course of the next 25 years, directly impacting the local community
Helen Brauner, Lightsource bp USA Interim Chief Operating Officer, said, “The Peacock Solar project adds to Lightsource bp’s operational fleet in Texas, helping reduce carbon emissions while diversifying the state’s energy mix to enhance security and reliability.”
She added, “By layering on biodiversity and agrivoltaics initiatives, projects like Peacock offer a win-win for both the environment and local communities.”
Annual Energy Generation and Industrial Impact
Peacock Solar will produce over 360,000 megawatt-hours of electricity annually. This clean energy will partially power GCGV’s manufacturing operations, which produce materials for essential goods such as clothing, food containers, agricultural film, and construction supplies.
“This project exemplifies our dedication to being a responsible site and an environmental steward,” said Paul Fritsch, president and site manager at GCGV. “By implementing innovative energy solutions, we ensure our site efficiently produces the essential products society relies on.”
Also read: BP Acquires Full Ownership of Lightsource BP to Strengthen Renewable Energy Portfolio
Biodiversity and Agrivoltaics Initiatives
Peacock Solar will aggregate various agricultural and biodiversity initiatives that will enhance environmental sustainability, supporting local economic activity. They will plant native vegetation under and around the solar panels to support pollinators and wildlife, while improving habitat quality, increasing species diversity, enhancing soil health, and strengthening the entire ecosystem. Sheep will graze at the site as part of maintaining farmland productivity and bringing in an economic benefit to the local rural community.
The Peacock Solar project also supports domestic manufacturers by using ultra-low carbon solar panels from Arizona-based First Solar and advanced trackers from Connecticut-based GameChange Solar.