Renewable America (RNA), a provider of local small utility-scale solar+storage and multi-customer community microgrid projects, has marked a significant milestone with the completion of its project situated in the picturesque Petaluma area of Marin County, California.
The endeavor was made possible through a strategic financing arrangement with Sunwest Bank, utilizing a sale leaseback structure that allows RNA to retain control of the project throughout its entire lifecycle. This solar site, seamlessly integrated into MCE’s service area portfolio, is poised to generate an estimated 2,300 megawatt hours (MWh) annually, providing clean energy to approximately 300 homes and mitigating an estimated 19,000 tons of CO2 emissions over the project’s lifetime.
California, a state at the forefront of renewable energy goals, aims to procure 90 percent of its electricity from renewable and zero-carbon sources by 2035. RNA’s achievement underscores its unwavering commitment to the clean energy transition. Their solar and storage projects are meticulously designed to bolster grid resiliency, making California’s vision for a sustainable future attainable. The Fallon project, boasting a capacity of 1.45 MWdc, utilizes fixed tilt and bifacial modules, further cementing Marin County’s path toward energy independence and resilience against supply disruptions.
In line with their dedication to local communities, RNA is ensuring that a portion of their workforce will be sourced locally, fostering job creation and stimulating economic growth within Marin County.
Additionally, RNA successfully obtained a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemption, enabling the construction of the photovoltaic facility while upholding environmental standards. The company’s efforts were further recognized as they became one of the inaugural developers approved for agricultural compatible land use under the Williamson Act contract in Marin County.
Demonstrating a conscientious approach, only 3.6 percent of the total parcel’s acreage will be utilized for the solar facility, preserving the natural state of the remaining land. RNA’s Ag Management plan will implement monitored sheep grazing around the solar facility, with ongoing evaluation by the county to ensure environmentally beneficial land usage.
Renewable America’s latest achievement stands as a beacon of hope, contributing to a more sustainable and cleaner future for Marin County and beyond.