Let’s be honest: utility planning, regulatory proceedings, and resource portfolios rarely make for exciting conversation. The wonky, technical work of shaping Utah’s energy future to be cleaner and healthier often happens in lengthy filings, expert testimony, and meetings most people never see. But every once in a while, that behind-the-scenes work turns into something we can point to on the landscape and celebrate.
We were thrilled to attend the grand opening of the Green River Energy Center in Emery County, a milestone for Utah’s clean energy future and the latest major clean energy project made possible, in part, by Utah Clean Energy’s expert advocacy in utility planning and regulatory proceedings.
As Utah’s voice for clean energy, we work behind the scenes to advocate for affordable, reliable, and pollution-free energy resources that benefit Utah families, businesses, and communities. Green River Energy Center is a powerful example of what that work can deliver.
The Largest Solar and Storage Project in PacifiCorp’s System
Developed by Salt Lake City-based rPlus Energies, this utility-scale solar and battery storage facility is truly groundbreaking. With 400 MW of solar generation paired with 400 MW of battery storage, this single project produces enough homegrown, pollution-free energy to power over 100,000 homes! That is roughly the equivalent of powering the entire city of Salt Lake City.
“Energy projects have an amazing multiplier effect. Not only will Emery County benefit from hosting this project long term, but the entire state of Utah and the regional economy will benefit because of the electrons flowing from this project will power out homes, our businesses, and communities all across the state.”
– Theresa Foxley, Chief of Staff, rPlus Energies
Tax Revenue, Scholarships, and More for Local Community Members
This project is bringing benefits that extend far beyond the electric grid. For Emery County, the project represents a long-term investment in the local economy. Over its operating life, Green River Energy Center is expected to generate more than $55 million in property tax revenue, helping support local schools, public services, and community infrastructure.
And it keeps getting better. Project partners have committed $375,000 in scholarships for local students, creating opportunities for the next generation to build careers close to home while strengthening Utah’s rural workforce and growing expertise in energy-related industries. Wow!
“We had a lot of ground out there that we really couldn’t maintain raising cattle or anything else with. This has been able to give the ranch a boost in our financial status.”
– Jim Fauver, Land Manager at Castle Valley Ranch
For Utah Clean Energy, this project is a reminder that the regulatory decisions being made today shape the energy system we will all rely on tomorrow. We’re proud to have helped pave the way for projects like Green River Energy Center, and we’ll continue serving as your voice for clean energy to ensure more transformative projects move from vision to reality.
More to come on this landmark project. But for now, let’s soak up the sunshine and celebrate the clean, affordable power it provides to Utah.
We would like to clarify that Utah Clean Energy is not a solar company. We are a nonprofit organization that advocates for solar and other clean energy technologies, but we do not install or sell solar in any way.