Rivian Powers Up with 100MW Solar Deal in Kentucky's Former Coal Mine
Rivian, an electric vehicle manufacturer, has signed a deal to purchase renewable energy from the BrightNight Starfire Renewable Energy Center in Kentucky. The project, set to be one of the largest in the state, will repurpose a former coal mine, Starfire Mine, into a solar energy hub.
The project, with an 800-megawatt (MW) capacity, will generate enough energy to supply over 170,000 households annually. Rivian will buy 100 MW of this renewable energy through a PPA, enabling up to 450 million miles of electric driving each year.
BrightNight, the developer, is committed to community engagement. It aims to determine local priorities and secure additional offtake agreements. The project will be developed in four phases, with the first phase starting in 2025. It will also involve constructing a twenty-mile transmission line, allowing for an additional 1 gigawatt (GW) of renewable energy generation in the region.
The project, valued at $1 billion, is a collaboration between BrightNight, Rivian, and The Nature Conservancy. They aim to maximize positive impacts on climate, conservation, and communities. Kentucky EEC Secretary Rebecca Goodman supports the project and is exploring ways BrightNight can assist in the development of the Olive Branch Community.
The BrightNight Starfire Renewable Energy Center, to be built on the site of the former Starfire Mine, represents a significant shift towards renewable energy in Kentucky. With an 800 MW capacity and the potential to power over 170,000 households, it demonstrates a substantial infrastructure investment. Rivian's involvement ensures that a significant portion of this renewable energy will power its electric vehicles.
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