An airplane manufacturer might seem like an unlikely partner for NRG Energy's (NRG -0.06%) latest solar project, but The Boeing Company (BA 0.96%) has been a key asset for the newly completed Community 1 Solar Generating Facility in Southern California.
Boeing was responsible for the engineering, procurement, and construction of the 6 MW facility, while NRG worked with independent power producer Sol Orchard and San Diego State University for project development, NRG said in a press release issued today.This is Boeing and NRG's first solar power plant; the project began 10 months ago. The 6 megawatts of power are generated via 25,000 solar panels arranged on 3,100 solar arrays spread across 37 acres. The companies say the facility can power approximately 2,200 homes at full capacity.
Commenting on the process in the press release, Boeing Defense, Space, & Security Vice President of Ventures Tim Noonan noted that "Boeing relied on its strong supply chain management, systems engineering, program management and performance-based logistics to build the Community 1 solar power plant."
As with most solar farms, all generated electricity has already been sold via a long-term power purchase agreement. In this instance, NRG Energy and Boeing will sell capacity to community-owned utility Imperial Immigration District under a 25-year contract.
"At NRG, we challenge the status quo, joining forces with the best to push the industry on innovation and new design, all with consumer needs in mind," said Randy Hickok, senior vice president at NRG Energy, in today's press release. "We're truly excited to empower the Imperial Irrigation District's community solar program which brings pioneering spirit and clean technology to their customers while doing something that will help ensure the future of our planet."
Looking ahead, Boeing and NRG aren't done collaborating. The two corporations are currently constructing a 25.7 MW solar farm on Guam, the island's first solar facility, which is estimated to be able to supply enough energy for 10,000 homes. Noonan was quoted as saying Boeing looked forward to other collaborations with NRG.
