Solar-energy giant Lightsource BP expands US business

Lightsource BP, Europe’s biggest solar energy developer, has signed deals for two new solar projects in the US, the company announced today. 

The UK-based company, which specialises in the development, acquisition and long-term management of large-scale solar projects and smart energy solutions, will build the 16 megawatt (MW) Wildflower Solar plant in California and a 9 MW solar project in New Mexico.

It is working with California’s Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) and Continental Divide Electric Cooperative (CDEC), a member-owned distribution cooperative in New Mexico, on the projects.

The power purchase agreements (PPAs) will deliver locally-generated solar photovoltaic power to the utilities’ customers over a minimum of 20 years.

Both projects will be completed in 2019, Lightsource BP boss Nick Boyle said.

Katherine Ryzhaya, Lightsource BP’s US chief commercial officer, said: "Our solar solutions will drive local economic development and job growth, increase utility customer satisfaction, and provide a cleaner, healthier environment for their communities.”

David Windle, BP head of solar energy, said, “The United States is an important market for renewables and for Lightsource BP, and this announcement demonstrates the real momentum we are building across the country. These new collaborations build upon BP’s track record in operating wind farms across the US and is another example of how we are advancing the global energy transition.”