New wind turbines begin spinning, advancing SMUD's zero carbon promise
Renewable energy expansion in Solano County can supply 40,000 homes
On Monday, SMUD will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for 19 new wind turbines in its clean energy portfolio. The Solano 4 Wind Project is a crucial component of SMUD’s 2030 Zero Carbon Plan to remove all carbon emissions from the utility’s power supply.
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What: |
Ribbon cutting ceremony for Solano 4 Wind Project highlighted by a switch-on inside the turbine control center. |
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When: |
Monday, May 13, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. |
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Where: |
Solano 4 Site, 7359 Montezuma Hills Rd., Rio Vista, CA 94571 |
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Who: |
SMUD Board of Directors, CEO & General Manager Paul Lau, SMUD executive team, Vestas executive team, Solano County representatives, local officials and other elected representatives. |
“These turbines are pivotal in our journey toward a completely carbon-free power supply by 2030, but our vision soars even higher,” said SMUD Chief Executive Officer & General Manager Paul Lau. “SMUD is dedicated to ensuring every community we serve enjoys improved air quality plus all the benefits of a clean energy future. That's our promise – a future where sustainability and innovation continue to drive us and the communities we serve forward, while keeping our rates among the lowest in California."
The Solano 4 Wind Project replaces 23 older turbines with advanced Vestas V150 turbines, increasing the project’s capacity to 85.5 megawatts – enough clean, renewable energy for 40,000 homes. With this addition, the combined Solano Wind Project will generate 300 megawatts and 830 gigawatt hours per year, a 48 percent increase in the annual energy generation.
The turbines at the Solano 4 Wind Project reach a monumental 590 feet, making them the tallest in California – surpassing the height of two state Capitol buildings stacked on one another. The larger blade size and height increase their ability to generate more electricity from even low wind speeds, making them a powerful and efficient addition to SMUD's clean energy portfolio.
SMUD invites residents and businesses to participate in an array of programs designed to educate, engage and empower customers to adopt and benefit from renewable energy and other clean energy solutions. Learn more at cleanpowercity.org.