Origis Energy and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) have commenced construction on the first of three groundbreaking solar projects in Mississippi.
The combined projects boast a capacity of 550 MW, coupled with a 150 MW battery storage capacity, marking a major milestone for the state. This venture represents both the largest battery storage and solar portfolio under construction in Mississippi, underscoring TVA’s commitment to advancing clean power generation across the Southeast.
Golden Triangle II, a 150 MWAC solar project with an additional 50 MW of battery storage, is slated for completion in spring 2024. Following closely, Golden Triangle I, a 200 MWAC solar initiative with 50 MW of battery storage, is expected to be operational by summer 2024. Both projects are situated in Lowndes County. Furthermore, the Optimist project, a 200 MWAC solar farm with 50 MW of battery storage located in Clay County, is projected to reach completion in mid-2025.
Origis Energy, a renewable energy platform in the United States, is responsible for the development, construction, and operation of these groundbreaking projects. Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) have been established between TVA and Origis to ensure the delivery of clean energy at competitive rates. TVA plans to utilize this sustainable energy to meet the sustainability objectives of various industrial customers and residents in Mississippi.
Jeremy Fisher, SVP Commercial Energy Solutions with TVA, expressed, “TVA is a clean energy leader, and we’re working with partners, like Origis, to add solar power to our system to meet customer demand. Projects like these ensure we can continue to provide affordable, reliable, resilient, and sustainable energy to fuel the region’s economic growth.”
The economic advantages stemming from these projects are estimated to be significant, with approximately $106 million in near-term construction and hiring gains for the region. Over the lifespan of these solar plants, an additional $145 million in estimated regional economic benefits is expected.
Johan Vanhee, Chief Commercial and Procurement Officer of Origis Energy, emphasized, “By helping companies meet their renewable goals, it becomes very attractive to locate or expand in Mississippi.”
Construction services for this pioneering portfolio are being provided by RES, generating employment for an estimated 300 individuals across the three projects. Upon project completion, Origis Energy Services will operate and maintain the portfolio, employing approximately nine on-site jobs over the projects’ 35+ year lifespan.
Mitsubishi Power Americas is the provider of utility-scale battery storage for each site. The initiative will see the installation of roughly 1.5 million solar panel modules across the three sites, sufficient to power an estimated 126,000 homes.