Ranked as the 46th largest solar facility in the United States, the Panoche Valley Solar Farm stands out not only for its capacity of 140 MW but also as a significant contributor to the solar energy landscape in California. Commissioned in 2018 and operated by Consolidated Edison Development Inc., this solar power generation facility captures the essence of the shift towards renewable energy sources, especially in a state known for its progressive energy policies. With a total of 1,386,385 MW across 10,047 plants in the country, Panoche Valley Solar Farm holds a modest 0.01% share of the national capacity, but its impact extends beyond mere numbers. The solar farm employs advanced photovoltaic technology to convert sunlight directly into electricity, playing a crucial role in harnessing California's abundant solar resources. Its location in the arid Central Valley, known for high solar irradiance, makes it an ideal site for solar generation. In terms of regional energy context, Panoche Valley Solar Farm is surrounded by a mix of energy generation facilities. Nearby, the Panoche Energy Center, a gas-fired plant with a capacity of 432 MW, contrasts sharply with the clean energy approach of the solar farm. Additionally, the W R Gianelli and Gianelli Powerhouse hydroelectric facilities, each with a capacity of 424 MW, emphasize the diverse energy mix in this region. The Wright Solar Park, with a capacity of 200 MW, also contributes to the solar landscape, underscoring a growing emphasis on renewable energy. In the broader context of California's energy profile, gas remains the dominant fuel type, yet solar energy is rapidly gaining ground. With over 3,289 solar plants in the country, each contributing to the transition to a more sustainable energy system, the Panoche Valley Solar Farm is uniquely positioned to advocate for solar power's role in the national energy grid. This facility, while relatively small in the grand scheme, aligns with California's ambitious goals for renewable energy and carbon reduction. Consolidated Edison Development Inc. continues to oversee operations, ensuring that the facility operates efficiently and contributes to the grid's stability. Looking ahead, the Panoche Valley Solar Farm exemplifies the potential for solar energy to transform not only local economies but also contribute significantly to national energy independence and sustainability. As the United States moves toward a cleaner energy future, the role of facilities like Panoche Valley will be increasingly vital in meeting both environmental goals and energy demands.
8 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.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.