Ground Mount Solar and Battery Project

The project involves the installation of a 4.55 megawatt direct current (MWdc) ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) solar energy system and associated electrical components on 15 acres on the main campus. A battery energy storage system (BESS) with an energy capacity of 11.7 megawatt-hours (MWh) would also be installed as part of the proposed project. The solar panel modules installed primarily on tracker mount systems with solar panels installed along the western portion of the project site as a south-facing fixed tilt system. Approximately 6,500 solar panels would be installed on approximately 1,275 posts. The project would also install a lithium-ion BESS on the eastern portion of the project site. The BESS would come in a prefabricated enclosure unit and have a fire rating in compliance with industry standards. Electrical components that would be installed as part of the project include inverters, an AC combiner, transformers, and a control panel. Conduit would connect the solar energy system to the electrical components within the project site. The proposed project would also include security features, including perimeter fencing, access gates, and lighting. The solar energy system would connect to the existing substation north of the project site, which would tie into the PG&E grid system via an underground 21-kilovolt, 825 linear foot power line. Construction of the proposed project would occur over an eight-month period between October 2026 and December 2027. Once operational, the solar energy system would be controlled, monitored, managed, and analyzed remotely using a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. Operation of the proposed project would be automated and unstaffed. Occasional vegetation management, periodic washing of the solar PV panels, and maintenance of the electrical components would be required to maintain safe operation and energy production.