Vernon Backup Generating Facility

GIC Vernon LLC is applying to the California Energy Commission for a Small Power Plant Exemption for the Vernon Backup Generating Facility in Vernon, California. This 99 MW emergency power system is designed to support the Goodman Energy Park data center, consisting of two buildings located at 3163 and 3049 East Vernon Avenue. The facility will be constructed on an 11.55-acre site and will feature 40 diesel generators, including 38 3-MW units for critical loads and two 1-MW house generators for life-safety and building systems. The system is electrically isolated from the regional grid and will only operate when electricity from Vernon Public Utility is unavailable. The project includes a new Soto switching station and an onsite project substation, with generators arranged in two separate yards tied to their respective data center buildings. Regulatory compliance requires adherence to the California Environmental Quality Act, National Pollutants Discharge Elimination System permit requirements under the Clean Water Act, and permits from the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Project management is led by Elizabeth Huber and Kaycee Chang. The current phase involves a Draft Environmental Impact Report under solicitation 25-SPPE-01 to determine if the project qualifies for an exemption from CEC certification.