Jackson EMC is expected to nearly double its solar energy portfolio thanks to four new solar generation sites in south Georgia.
Jackson EMC spokesman Mark Owen said the utility's participation in the project will grow its solar capacity by 10 megawatts.
"That is enough to provide power to about 1,400 average homes."
Jackson EMC's part will bring its total solar generation capacity to just over 20 megawatts.
"We're adding more and more solar. We have a very diverse generation portfolio currently that has everything from natural gas to nuclear power to coal power, but certainly adding solar is a good thing for our members because the cost of solar has really come down," Owen said.
The sites will be in service by 2020 and will add 200 megawatts of overall solar generation capacity for the state. It's part of an ongoing strategic partnership between Silicon Ranch and Green Power EMC.
"Continued improvements in solar cost and technology will help our EMCs meet their members' interest in solar energy and maintain competitive energy costs," Green Power EMC President Jeff Pratt said for a media release.
When the projects are complete, Jackson EMC's total megawatt solar capacity will translate into roughly enough electricity to power 3,200 average homes.
"As northeast Georgia continues to grow, this is an investment that makes good business sense for our members," Chip Jakins, president and CEO of Jackson EMC said.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2017/7/556246/jackson-emc-to-benefit-from-south-georgia-solar-project