Overview
4Oaks is a 5 MW solar PV facility in the United States, owned by USF Surry LLC. It generates renewable electricity for the local grid.
4Oaks is a solar photovoltaic (PV) facility located in the United States, with a capacity of 5 megawatts (MW). The plant is owned by USF Surry LLC and is currently operational, contributing to the country's growing renewable energy portfolio. As a solar PV installation, it converts sunlight directly into electricity without emissions during operation. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) providing tax incentives for solar energy, and state-level Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) that mandate a certain percentage of electricity from renewable sources. Solar PV is a mature technology, and 5 MW is considered a small-to-medium scale installation, typical for community or commercial solar projects. Environmentally, 4Oaks helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by displacing fossil fuel-based electricity. Solar farms require land use but have minimal water consumption and no air pollutants. The facility supports grid stability and contributes to the local clean energy transition, aligning with national goals for decarbonization.
Environmental context
Solar PV installations like 4Oaks have a low environmental impact during operation, with no emissions or water use. However, land use for solar arrays can affect local habitats and agricultural land. In the United States, solar projects are often sited on disturbed or marginal lands to minimize ecological disruption. The facility's location in North Carolina benefits from moderate solar irradiance, supporting efficient energy generation.
Frequently asked questions
4Oaks is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 35.4325° N, -78.4117° W, in the state of North Carolina.
The 4Oaks solar plant has a capacity of 5 megawatts (MW), which is typical for a small-to-medium scale solar PV installation.
The 4Oaks solar facility is owned by USF Surry LLC, a company involved in renewable energy development.
Solar PV in the US benefits from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which provides tax credits, and state-level Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) that require utilities to source a portion of electricity from renewables.
Solar PV generates electricity without greenhouse gas emissions or air pollutants, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting climate change mitigation efforts.