French renewable energy firm Engie has commissioned its 50MW solar PV plant in Houston.
The SolaireHolman plant is now online and capable of providing up to 10.5% of the electricity needs of Texas’ largest city; solidifying Houston’s status as the largest municipal purchaser of renewable energy in the US.
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Located on 146 hectares in Alpine, Texas, the plant was developed by Engie subsidiaries Solairedirect North America and Engie North America. Comprised of 203,840 PV modules, the plant is one of the largest solar installations in the entire state.
The project will provide electricity for Houston locations such as the Hermann Park Zoo, the Bob Lanier Public Works Building, wastewater treatment plants, and several Bush Intercontinental Airport terminals.
“I want to thank ENGIE and all those who worked on this project for this fabulous Earth Day present,” said Houston mayor Sylvester Turner. “As the energy capital of the world, it is important that Houston lead by example and show that investing in solar and renewable energy is a critical tool cities must use to prepare for the future. As the nation’s largest municipal purchaser of green power, we are living proof that large, industrial cities like Houston can have a robust economy but also help fight climate change.”
“We’re very proud to serve the City of Houston, a national innovator and substantial customer by any measure,” said Marc-Alain Behar, managing director for Solairedirect North America. “One of the most gratifying parts of our work at ENGIE is aligning with customers to provide the best value we can. Through SolaireHolman, the City of Houston will strengthen its energy portfolio with clean, low-cost solar power for the benefit of all the people who live and work in this vibrant community. What an excellent way to mark Earth Day 2017.”