Sunstone Solar: Oregon Greenlights Largest U.S. Solar and Storage Project

The United States' largest solar and energy storage initiative, Sunstone Solar, has reached a major milestone by receiving final discretionary approval from the Oregon Energy Facility Siting Council (EFSC). The project, owned by Pine Gate Renewables, will bring 1.2 GW of solar energy and 1.2 GW of storage capacity to Oregon, marking a transformative step in the nation’s renewable energy transition.

A Rigorous Path to Approval

The EFSC's approval concludes a comprehensive evaluation and public engagement process, showcasing Oregon’s high standards for renewable energy projects. Ben Catt, CEO of Pine Gate Renewables, highlighted the collaborative efforts behind the achievement:

"This unanimous approval is a testament to our dedication to creating benefits for Oregon and the Morrow County community."

Innovative Support for Local Agriculture

Sunstone Solar goes beyond energy production by addressing local agricultural concerns. Pine Gate Renewables has pledged over $1,000 per project acre to a county-managed fund supporting Morrow County's agricultural economy. This initiative aims to enhance the resilience of local wheat farms while minimizing the project's impact on agricultural lands.

Federal Support and Vision

Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) praised the project’s alignment with federal climate initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act, which supports innovative energy solutions.

"Projects like Sunstone Solar are essential in the fight against the climate crisis," Wyden stated.

Next Steps for Sunstone Solar

Engineering and procurement for Sunstone Solar are set to begin in 2025, with phased construction slated for 2026. The project will connect to the Bonneville Power Administration grid via the Umatilla Electric Cooperative system, ensuring seamless energy distribution.

Pine Gate Renewables, which operates 17 other solar projects in Oregon, acquired Sunstone Solar from Gallatin Power Partners in 2022. This development promises not only renewable energy advancement but also economic opportunities for the local community.