A solar project south of Twin Falls near Rogerson along Highway 93 is expected to be completed before summer peak season.
The 120-megawatt solar project will be the largest solar facility in the state and called Jackpot Solar, according to Duke Energy. The solar energy will go to Idaho power for the next 20 years.
The project spans about 950 acres, according to KMVT. Last April, Twin Falls County Commissioner Brent Reinke told the news station: “I think it’s an opportunity for us here in Twin Falls County, and for those that are living in Rogerson and Hollister, to have an influx of business which is going to be helpful for them, it’s going to help all of us throughout the county so we’re grateful to have this project here.”
Idaho Power is working toward providing 100% clean energy by 2045 from wind, solar, hydro and backed up by a battery storage network to provide reliability to the grid, top officials have said. The purchase of Jackpot Solar means Idaho Power can sell the associated renewable energy credits (RECs) to offset power supply costs and to keep prices low for ratepayers.
“Providing 100% clean energy is an important goal for Idaho Power, and more and more customers are telling us it is important to them, too,” said Lisa Grow, CEO and president of Idaho Power in a news release last April. “We have a great head start, thanks to our clean hydropower plants that remain our largest source of energy.”
Swinerton Renewable Energy is constructing and engineering the project, which will then be operated by Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions, according to Solar Power World. The project has employed about 200 workers and will provide tax revenues for the Filer Consolidated School District. The Duke Energy Foundation awarded $15,000 to support fire safety in rural Twin Falls Council through the Shoshone Basin Rangeland Fire Protection Association.