Sandy Branch Solar Project
ConnectGen is developing a large-scale solar project in northeast Wharton County. ConnectGen expects to install up to 150 megawatts (MW) of solar in the area, which has the potential to power over 16,000 homes in Texas.
Connecting Power, Projects & People
Why Wharton County, Texas?
According to a report by Wood Mackenzie and the Solar Energy Industries Association, at the start of 2019, there were approximately 2,957 MW of solar installed in Texas, enough to power 353,000 homes. Ranked 5th in the nation for installed solar capacity in 2018, Texas is already reaping the benefits of economic growth across the Lone Star State and is poised to grow with more than 4,000 MW of capacity expected to be installed over the next 5 years. This will triple its current installed solar capacity and makes Texas the third fastest-growing solar energy producer behind California and Florida.
ConnectGen has identified Wharton County for solar development primarily because of its proximity to the existing transmission system and favorable site suitability with limited design constraints.
Sandy Branch Project Area
ConnectGen has leased 1,200 acres of pastureland in northeast Wharton County and anticipates commencing construction of its Sandy Branch Solar Project in the middle of 2020 and beginning operations in 2021.
The Sandy Branch Solar Project will provide benefits to Wharton County and local communities through:
Community Payments
Millions of dollars in increased revenues for roads, schools, public safety, and other public services to Wharton County and the East Bernard Independent School District over the life of the project
Local Jobs
Local construction jobs and revenue to local businesses
Community Involvement
Support of local community organizations through donations and sponsorships
About ConnectGen
Founded in 2018, ConnectGen is a renewable energy company focused on developing best-in-class wind, solar, and energy storage projects that will increase America’s supply of low-cost, domestically produced clean energy.
Experience
The ConnectGen team has previously managed and led the development of three utility-scale wind farms across Texas, all of which are currently in operation.
Opportunity
ConnectGen currently is developing two utility-scale solar facilities in Texas while also continuing to assess additional opportunities across the state.
ConnectGen’s experienced development team has a track record of successfully identifying, developing, and constructing renewable energy projects. Our previous project successes have been built on a foundation of strong relationships with the landowners and communities hosting the projects. We are committed to working with landowners, neighbors, and all project stakeholders to safely and responsibly design and build projects that bring long-term benefits to the communities.