Construction has started on the 120-MW Jackpot Solar project in Twin Falls County, Idaho. This is Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions‘ first utility-scale solar project in Idaho, and once completed it is expected to be the largest in the state.
Jackpot Solar is expected to achieve commercial operation by the end of 2022 and will provide energy to Idaho Power through a 20-year power purchase agreement.
Idaho Power is working toward its “Clean Today, Cleaner Tomorrow” goal of producing 100% clean energy by 2045.
“We’re excited to enter into the Idaho market and be a part of the state’s transition toward a cleaner energy future,” said Chris Fallon, president of Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions. “Jackpot Solar will help diversify the state’s energy infrastructure, bring additional economic benefits to the state and Twin Falls County, while also supporting Idaho Power’s clean energy goals.”
Swinerton Renewable Energy is handling the engineering and construction of the project, which will be located on 952 rural acres south of the city of Twin Falls. Duke Energy Sustainable Solutions will own and operate the project.
“Providing 100% clean energy is an important goal for Idaho Power, and more and more customers are telling us it is important to them, too,” said Lisa Grow, CEO and president of Idaho Power. “We have a great head start, thanks to our clean hydropower plants that remain our largest source of energy.”
The project is expected to employ approximately 200 workers at peak construction. Along with indirect economic benefits that accompany solar project development, the Jackpot Solar facility will provide tax revenues for the Filer Consolidated School District.
Additionally, the Duke Energy Foundation awarded a $15,000 grant to the Shoshone Basin Rangeland Fire Protection Association to support the organization’s efforts to enhance the safety of the citizens in rural areas of Twin Falls County.
“Safety is a top priority for us,” Fallon said. “We’re proud to be a part of this community and help fund the equipment and services that will enable the Shoshone Basin emergency responders to continue to maintain the safety of area residents and businesses.”
