The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority and Lightsource bp will partner on a 25-megawatt solar project, the two entities announced Tuesday.
The project will bring their joint statewide operational solar assets to more than 42 megawatts – about 20 percent of SEPTA’s electricity demands. The Elk Hill Solar 1 farm in Franklin County, Pa., will help SEPTA meet its sustainability goals by abating 28,000 metric tons of CO2 annually.
“SEPTA is proud to be an industry leader in utilizing new technologies that are reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing the quality of life for our customers and the communities we serve,” SEPTA CEO and General Manager Leslie S. Richards said. “One of the main goals of our strategic business plan, SEPTA Forward, is to enhance sustainability and expand our access to renewable energy sources. We have taken a major step forward with these solar farms, and we look forward to launching more innovative projects and partnerships.”
Elk Hill Solar 1 will be developed under a power purchase agreement between SEPTA and Lightsource bp. The solar farm will support SEPTA’s sustainability goals while supporting the state’s clean energy goals and lowering carbon emissions. The $25 million project is fully funded by Lightsource bp and project investors and is estimated to create 100 jobs during facility construction.
“In addition to lowering greenhouse gas emissions by generating electricity from Pennsylvania home-grown renewable energy sources, solar projects like these can help strengthen local rural economies across the Commonwealth,” Kevin Smith, CEO of the Americas, Lightsource bp, said. “Our multiuse land strategies further multiply the benefits of these projects.”