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After Numerous Obstacles, Salt Lake’s Biggest Renewable Energy Initiative is Now Operational

Utah's largest solar farm, spread across 550 acres, is now operational, marking a significant shift towards renewable energy in the region.
Brandon Terry, project manager from SOLV Energy, gives a tour of part of the facility to Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and other local officials as they open the Elektron Solar Project west of Grantsville in Tooele County on Monday.

Large-scale Solar Farm in

Tooele County

Tooele County

Brings Additional Renewable Energy to Utah Cities

After overcoming several unanticipated challenges, a significant solar farm is now operational in Tooele County, west of the Great Salt Lake. Spanning 550 acres, the Elektron Solar Project adds a robust renewable energy source for several Utah entities eager to transition to cleaner power.

Officials including Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall and Park City Mayor Nann Worel marked the opening of the solar farm, developed by D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments and SOLV Energy, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. “This is the largest renewable energy initiative Salt Lake City has ever been a part of,” Mendenhall declared, underscoring the project’s potential impact on Utah’s renewable energy landscape.

Powering Cities and Institutions

Despite its recent official opening, the 80-megawatt solar farm has been operational since mid-May. The energy it generates feeds into the Rocky Mountain Power grid and benefits entities like Salt Lake City, Park City, Summit County, Park City Mountain, Deer Valley Resort, and Utah Valley University (UVU). These entities have entered into 20-25-year power purchase agreements tied to the farm’s output.

The solar farm supplies 80-85% of the electricity needs for Salt Lake City’s municipal-owned buildings and over 90% of UVU’s buildings. “Despite a couple unexpected challenges, the determination of every partner here today has brought us to this incredible moment,” Mendenhall added.

Overcoming Global Challenges

Initial planning for the project began five years ago, with completion initially expected in 2023. However, the project faced several unexpected hurdles. These included U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s hold on silicon-based products from Hoshine Silicon Industry Co. due to labor ethics concerns and subsequent federal policies that disrupted the solar market. Additional challenges included the passage of the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which further complicated the solar market, and supply chain issues exacerbated by rising interest rates.

Solar Energy to Meet Ambitious Sustainability Goals

The solar farm will support several groups in their bid to significantly cut or entirely offset carbon emissions in the coming decades. Salt Lake City officials indicate that the solar farm is a significant stride towards the city’s goal of sourcing 100% net renewable energy by 2030. “Today’s residents and future generations depend on our unshakable commitment to sustainability,” said Mendenhall.

Entities that have signed power purchase agreements have similar sustainability objectives. Deer Valley Resort aims for 100% net renewable sources by 2030, while Park City Mountain targets a “zero net operating footprint” by the end of the decade. UVU aims to be carbon neutral by 2050, with the solar farm playing a crucial role in achieving this objective.

More Renewable Energy Developments on the Horizon

The Elektron Solar Project will soon join other renewable energy projects underway in Utah. D. E. Shaw’s website lists several Utah projects slated to be operational in 2024, which will add 195 megawatts to the grid. A central Utah project, expected to be completed next year, will contribute another 300 megawatts.

Original Story at www.ksl.com

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024