RE Tranquillity is a notable solar power generation facility in the United States, ranking 1343rd out of 10,047 plants nationwide and securing its position as the 21st largest solar plant among 3,289 solar facilities. With a capacity of 205.3 MW, this solar farm, commissioned in 2016 and operated by Southern Power Co, is a vital contributor to California's ambitious renewable energy goals. Located at coordinates 36.5814, -120.4045, RE Tranquillity harnesses sunlight through advanced photovoltaic technology, transforming it into electricity with minimal environmental impact, further diversifying the energy mix in a state where natural gas remains the dominant fuel source. In its regional context, RE Tranquillity is strategically located near several other energy facilities, including the Panoche Energy Center (432 MW, Gas), Great Valley Solar Portfolio Holdings LLC (202.5 MW, Solar), Midway Peaking LLC (139.8 MW, Gas), Fresno Cogen Partners (82.6 MW, Gas), and North Star Solar (61.6 MW, Solar). This proximity to a diverse range of power plants highlights the facility's role in enhancing grid reliability and energy security. With a combination of solar and gas facilities nearby, the area presents a balanced approach to meeting energy demands, especially during peak consumption periods when solar generation may wane. In the context of the broader U.S. energy landscape, where 10,047 plants account for a total capacity of 1,386,385 MW, RE Tranquillity's contribution represents just 0.01% of the national total. This illustrates the ongoing challenges in scaling up renewable energy to meet national energy needs, especially in a country that heavily relies on fossil fuels. However, as solar technology advances and costs continue to decline, facilities like RE Tranquillity are poised to play an increasingly significant role in the energy transition. Southern Power Co's stewardship of RE Tranquillity reflects a commitment to sustainable energy development, aligning with broader trends toward cleaner energy solutions. As the global emphasis on renewable resources intensifies, the potential for this solar farm to expand its role in California's energy portfolio is promising. With its advanced technology and strategic location, RE Tranquillity not only contributes to local energy needs but also sets a precedent for future solar developments, showcasing the economic and environmental benefits of investing in renewable energy.
10 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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