Project
Solar Communities in Clackamas and Marion Counties
Location
Oregon, U.S.
Challenge
Mountainous terrain and difficult grid infrastructure for large-scale solar generation have been two major challenges for more widespread solar adoption in Oregon.
Solution
Valmont Solar’s Convert-1P Single-Axis Solar Tracker has shined through as a solution to support a growing number of smaller-scale solar projects that are helping Oregon meet its renewable energy targets.
Under a law passed in 2016, half of Oregon's electricity will come from renewable resources by 2040.
The Pacific Northwest has distinctive challenges for solar installation—mountainous terrain and an electrical grid that's updating alongside the increasing renewable energy sources. Valmont has worked with partners to overcome these challenges in Oregon, making smaller-scale, or distributed generation (DG), solar projects more accessible through its Convert-1P Single-Axis Solar Tracker. This highly customizable tracker is an ideal solution for the area known for its undulating terrain. It is adaptable to uneven land surfaces and soil, minimizing costly grading, can be placed in shorter rows to meet the size and shape of the area, and tracks with the sun to capture the maximum amount of energy throughout the day.
Valmont has provided its solar trackers for 10 projects since 2019 that generate more than 60 megawatts direct current (MWDC) of power, conserving resources and improving lives of more than 600,000 Oregonians.
Some of the newer solar installations are community solar gardens in Clackamas and Marion counties. Individuals and organizations can purchase solar energy through the third-party community solar garden to reduce carbon footprints on an individual scale. In addition, the increased availability of solar power helps expand access to renewable energy sources, especially for those not ideally positioned to place solar panels on roofs of homes or businesses, like renters or those who need help to afford rooftop panels.
The millions of watts of newly generated solar power substantially reduce CO2 emissions. According to the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, an acre of solar panels producing zero-emissions electricity saves between 121 to 138 metric tons of CO2 per year.
While solar power still accounts for less than 3% of the state's current renewable energy portfolio, Oregon's Renewable Portfolio Standard requires that half of all electricity come from renewable resources by 2040. Valmont is proud to be part of Oregon's push for renewable energy. With seven additional solar projects in progress, it will continue to help accelerate solar adoption and increase sustainability across the state.