The Arlington Valley Solar Energy II stands out as the 52nd largest solar power facility in the United States, contributing a notable 129 MW to the national solar capacity. This plant, which began operations in 2013 and is managed by Arlington Valley Solar Energy II LLC, is ranked #1821 out of 10,047 power generation facilities across the country. Situated in the state of Arizona, Arlington Valley Solar Energy II plays a critical role in a region that is increasingly embracing solar energy as part of its diverse energy profile. With a total national capacity of 1,386,385 MW, the significance of this solar facility is underscored by the fact that it is part of a growing sector where solar continues to gain traction despite gas being the dominant fuel in the U.S. energy mix. Technologically, the facility employs photovoltaic (PV) systems that convert sunlight directly into electricity, showcasing the innovation inherent in modern solar power generation. Located within proximity to major energy generation plants, Arlington Valley Solar Energy II is surrounded by significant facilities such as the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station, which has an impressive capacity of 4,209.6 MW, and the Harquahala Generating Project, a gas plant producing 1,325.1 MW. This cluster of nearby plants illustrates the complexity of the regional energy landscape, where nuclear, gas, and solar sources coexist to meet the energy demands of the area. While Arlington Valley Solar Energy II contributes approximately 0.009% to the total U.S. capacity, its role in Arizona's energy scene highlights the state's commitment to expanding renewable resources. As solar technology continues to evolve and gain efficiency, facilities like Arlington Valley Solar Energy II are not merely power generators but also vital components of a sustainable energy future, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner energy solutions.
13 years old
United States of America, North America
- Primary Fuel Type
- Solar
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
United States of America — Energy ProfileSolar power generation harnesses the sun's energy using photovoltaic (PV) cells or solar thermal systems to produce electricity. The basic principle of solar power generation involves converting sunlight into usable energy. When sunlight hits a PV cell, it excites electrons in the semiconductor material, generating an electric current. This process is known as the photovoltaic effect. Solar thermal systems, on the other hand, use sunlight to heat a fluid that, in turn, produces steam to drive a turbine and generate electricity. Both methods provide a clean and renewable energy source that is gaining significant traction worldwide.
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