Lightsource bp is moving forward on its 130-MWdc Black Bear Solar energy project in Montgomery County, Alabama.
“This project demonstrates the positive impacts that result from partnerships with shared goals to reduce carbon emissions, deliver affordable electricity, create jobs and contribute to local communities,” said Kevin Smith, CEO of the Americas, Lightsource bp. “It’s also a testament to the cost-effectiveness and bankability of solar energy that world-class lenders are supporting this project, and that AMEA (Alabama Municipal Electric Authority) has agreed to purchase the electricity on a long-term basis to the substantial benefit of its members.”
AMEA, located in Montgomery, is the wholesale power provider for 11 public power utilities in Alabama, and secured a power contract that was critical in financing Black Bear Solar.
“AMEA is excited about our partnership with Lightsource bp. This large scale solar project will help diversify AMEA’s fuel resources, and will continue to provide low-cost electricity to our Members’ customers,” said Fred Clark, president & CEO, AMEA.
Situated 15 miles from AMEA’s headquarters in Montgomery, Black Bear Solar will supply cost-effective, locally sourced, sustainable electricity to AMEA’s 11 member utilities located across the state. In addition to providing clean energy and bill savings to AMEA’s Members and their customers, the project will contribute almost $7 million in property tax revenue to county schools over the first 35 years of the project life.
