Overview
National Raisin is a 2.9 MW solar PV facility in California, United States, owned and operated by National Raisin. It contributes to the state's renewable energy portfolio.
National Raisin is a solar photovoltaic (PV) facility located in California, United States, with a capacity of 2.9 megawatts (MW). It is owned by National Raisin and is currently operational, supporting the company's energy needs and the broader renewable energy grid. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, including the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and California's Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which mandates a significant share of electricity from renewable sources. Solar PV is a leading technology in the state, benefiting from abundant sunshine and supportive policies. By generating clean electricity, National Raisin helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Its output contributes to California's goal of achieving 100% clean electricity by 2045, while also providing energy cost savings and grid stability benefits.
Environmental context
Solar PV facilities like National Raisin have a low environmental footprint during operation, with no emissions or water use. However, land use and visual impacts are considerations, as large arrays require significant space. In California, solar development is often sited on agricultural or desert lands, balancing energy production with habitat preservation. The facility's location in the San Joaquin Valley, an agricultural region, integrates renewable energy with existing land use.
Frequently asked questions
National Raisin is located in California, United States, at coordinates 36.6245, -119.6731, in the San Joaquin Valley.
The National Raisin solar facility has a capacity of 2.9 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale solar PV installation.
National Raisin is owned by National Raisin, a company in the food processing industry, which uses the solar energy to power its operations.
Solar energy in the US is supported by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which provides tax credits, and state-level Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) like California's, which require utilities to source a growing share of electricity from renewables.
Solar PV generates electricity with zero emissions during operation, reducing greenhouse gases. However, it requires land and can affect local ecosystems if not sited carefully. Recycling of panels at end-of-life is an emerging consideration.