Port of Oakland Commissioners Approve Nearly $20 Million for Solar Energy Project

Key Takeaways

The Oakland Board of Port Commissioners approved a $19.3 million agreement for 20 years of solar energy.
The Port aims for zero-emissions operations across its facilities, benefiting community and environment.
The Port will purchase about 8 megawatts of solar energy annually from Grace Orchard Energy Center, starting in December 2027.

Port of Oakland Secures Long-Term Solar Power

On July 18, 2024, the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners announced a significant $19.3 million agreement to secure solar power over the next two decades. This initiative not only reinforces the Port of Oakland’s commitment to sustainability but also provides a consistent energy supply for various tenants, including the San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport and the Oakland Seaport.

Kristi McKenney, Chief Operating Officer of the Port, emphasized the importance of this long-term renewable energy agreement. “Entering into a long-term agreement guarantees a fixed price for our energy costs,” she stated, noting that energy prices can often fluctuate unpredictably. This fixed-price approach aims to stabilize energy expenses for the Port and its stakeholders.

The agreement involves the annual purchase of approximately eight megawatts (MW) of solar energy from Grace Orchard Energy Center, LLC, located in Riverside County, California. To put this into perspective, the amount of energy procured annually would be sufficient to power roughly 6,400 homes. This strategic move aligns with the Port’s goal of achieving zero-emissions operations at both its airport and seaport.

In addition to solar energy, the Port utilizes other renewable sources, including hydroelectric, geothermal, biomass, and biowaste. These diverse energy strategies contribute to the Port of Oakland’s broader ambition of promoting environmental sustainability.

The Grace Solar Facility is expected to become operational in the summer of 2027, with the Port’s energy purchasing agreement beginning shortly thereafter in December of the same year. This forward-thinking decision underscores the Port’s role as a leader in clean energy initiatives and environmental innovation.

The Port of Oakland not only focuses on sustainability but also plays a crucial economic role, supporting over 98,345 jobs in the area and generating an impressive $174 billion in annual economic activity. By overseeing the Oakland Seaport, the San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront, the Port is pivotal in ensuring regional growth and prosperity.

The Port of Oakland continues to work alongside its partners for a cleaner and greener future, proving that sustainability and economic activity can go hand in hand. For more information, the Port of Oakland provides updates on its initiatives through its official website and various social media channels.

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