Renewable America, a prominent provider of distributed energy resources, local small utility-scale solar+storage, and community microgrids in California, has successfully achieved the Commercial Operation of its West Tambo Clean Power II (WEST-II) solar project. The 8.5-acre, 2.93-megawatt (MWdc) solar installation in Livingston, California, will provide clean, renewable energy to San Jose. The facility will energize about 800 households per year while eliminating almost 48,000 tons of CO2 emissions throughout its lifespan.
Bringing Clean Power to Disadvantaged Communities
The West Tambo Clean Power II project is important as it exists in a community classified as both a low-income community (LIC) and a disadvantaged community (DAC). The project will yield economic and environmental benefits to these disempowered communities in the forms of cleaner air, employment, and economic growth.
Ardi Arian, President & CEO of Renewable America, said, “The WEST-II site combines environmentally Disadvantaged and Low-Income Communities in one project, creating a powerful cycle of shared benefits—jobs, cleaner air, and economic growth for one, while delivering affordable renewable power to the other.”
He added, “We also celebrate several important milestones with this development, such as a promising new collaboration with San Jose Clean Energy, a successful union labor contract, and expanded access to solar for underrepresented populations.”
Collaboration with San Jose Clean Energy and Labor Support
A key milestone for the WEST-II project was its collaboration with San Jose Clean Energy. This partnership not only strengthens local renewable energy development but also supports workers through a union labor contract. The project created apprenticeship opportunities, allowing local workers to develop skills and contribute to the clean energy transition.
In addition, WEST-II was eligible for a 20% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) under the US Department of Energy’s Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program. This credit is given for selling electricity to low-income families, further increasing the project’s contribution to the local community
Also read: EDF Renewables’ Huck Finn Solar Project Reaches Commercial Operation
Efficient and Quality Construction
Renewable America led every phase of the WEST-II development, including parcel scouting, lease negotiations, engineering, permitting, and design. Using its in-house construction team, including a licensed C-10 and general B arm, Renewable America handled much of the work. This hands-on approach improved efficiency, quality control, and coordination, ensuring the project’s timely and successful completion.
