Overview
Alpaugh North is a 20 MW solar PV facility in California, USA, owned by Consolidated Edison Development Inc. It contributes to the state's renewable energy goals under the Renewable Portfolio Standard.
Alpaugh North is a solar photovoltaic (PV) facility located in California, United States, with a capacity of 20 megawatts (MW). This scale places it as a medium-sized solar installation within the state's extensive renewable energy portfolio. The facility is owned by Consolidated Edison Development Inc., a prominent developer in the US renewable energy sector. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and California's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which mandates 60% renewable electricity by 2030 and 100% by 2045. Solar PV technology converts sunlight directly into electricity, and this plant contributes to grid decarbonization by displacing fossil fuel generation. Alpaugh North's operational significance lies in its contribution to California's clean energy transition. The facility supports local grid stability and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with state and federal climate targets. Its location in the Central Valley benefits from high solar irradiance, optimizing energy production.
Environmental context
Solar PV facilities like Alpaugh North have a low environmental footprint during operation, with no emissions or water consumption. However, land use for solar arrays can impact local ecosystems and agricultural land. In California's Central Valley, careful siting is important to minimize habitat disruption. The facility's operation supports reduced air pollution and water savings compared to conventional power plants.
Frequently asked questions
Alpaugh North is located in California, United States, near the town of Alpaugh in the Central Valley.
Alpaugh North has a capacity of 20 megawatts (MW), making it a medium-scale solar photovoltaic facility.
Alpaugh North is owned by Consolidated Edison Development Inc., a subsidiary of Con Edison that develops renewable energy projects.
Solar PV in California benefits from the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the state's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which targets 60% renewable electricity by 2030 and 100% by 2045.
Alpaugh North generates clean electricity, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions, supporting California's climate targets.