Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group celebrates the launch of the Brighter Future Solar project, which successfully achieved a Commercial Operation Date as of January 27, 2022. The 15.7MWdc/11MWac solar photovoltaic (PV) project will provide clean power for Blue Ridge Energy in North Carolina, United States.
“This is the latest step on the path to a decarbonized world,” said Yoshihiro Shiraiwa, President and CEO, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, at a launch event on February 22. “It is a blueprint for other communities looking to increase renewable energy and reach net-zero. Additionally, it represents one of the many ways MHI is partnering with other organizations, businesses and stakeholders to build a more sustainable future.”
The Brighter Future Solar project will generate and send 19,000 megawatt hours of carbon-free electricity into the grid annually. The energy will be used by surrounding communities, allowing them to meet their decarbonization goals on — or even ahead of — schedule.
The town of Boone, North Carolina recently announced its municipal operations have converted to using 100 percent renewable energy, hitting the milestone eight years ahead of the town’s goal. Solar energy from Blue Ridge Energy contributes to 75 percent of their energy usage.
“We are excited to ‘Flip the Switch’ and celebrate the beneficial impact the Brighter Future Solar facility will have on our members living in northwest North Carolina,” said Doug Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Ridge Energy. “We set out to meet an ambitious goal that included significant carbon reduction while also making sure we look out for our members and keep the promise of low cost electricity in mind. Not only will the output of this energy help us Power a Brighter Future, it will also help us maintain stable electricity rates, saving our members money over time,” said Johnson.
MHI, in partnership with Osaka Gas USA, purchased equity interest in the Brighter Future Solar Farm from project developer Oriden, an MHI Group company, in September 2021.
MHI Group is committed to building an innovative solutions ecosystem to realize a carbon neutral future. The global company identifies investment opportunities in carbon reduction projects and climate tech start-ups to accelerate its energy transition activities.
