Heartland Solar Project

The Heartland Solar Project involves the construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning of a renewable energy facility in western Fresno County, California, specifically near Mendota. The project consists of a photovoltaic solar energy generation system producing approximately 300 megawatts alternating current (MWAC) and a battery energy storage system with a capacity of up to 300 MWAC for at least a four-hour discharge. Spanning approximately 2,362 acres of private land, the facility will interconnect to the regional electrical grid via a five-mile generation-tie line leading to the Tranquillity Switching Station, which is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company. The project has undergone extensive environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act, resulting in the certification of Environmental Impact Report No. 7564 and the approval of Unclassified Conditional Use Permit No. 3630 on June 4, 2026. Key compliance requirements include adherence to SJVAPCD Rule 9510 for construction equipment emissions and strict CPUC rules for utility safety and vegetation management. Additionally, the project mandates the employment of a Secretary of the Interior-Qualified Project Archaeologist to implement a Cultural Resource Monitoring Plan and requires immediate adherence to Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 in the event of the discovery of human remains. Biological concerns have been raised regarding special-status species, including the San Joaquin kit fox, Swainson's hawk, and western burrowing owl, necessitating specific mitigation and take authorizations.