Hecate Energy has chosen Bechtel to spearhead the design and construction of its Sunfish Solar 2, the inaugural project in its 1-GW solar expansion in Calhoun County, Michigan, US.
The initiative is poised to support Michigan’s renewable energy goals, aiming for 50% clean energy generation by 2030.
The Sunfish Solar 2 project is a 360 megawatts defined conditions (MWdc) facility that will feature 620,000 bifacial solar panels spread across 1,300 acres.
The panels can absorb sunlight on both sides, enhancing energy efficiency.
Bechtel plans to employ its digital delivery approach to design, construct and commission the facility, incorporating autonomous technologies to optimise project execution.
The facility will offset 1.5 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, equivalent to removing 300,000 passenger vehicles from the roads each year.
The construction phase is scheduled to begin towards the end of 2024.
At its peak, Sunfish Solar 2 will create 350 construction jobs, contributing to local economic growth and workforce development.
Bechtel Renewables & Clean Power general manager Scott Austin stated: “We are proud to support Michigan’s renewable energy goals with this milestone project, and to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future, while also creating high-quality clean energy jobs.”
Hecate Energy chief technology officer and engineering, procurement, and construction executive vice-president Fazli Qadir stated: “We are delighted to partner with Bechtel on Sunfish Solar 2.
“Bechtel brings more than 80 years of experience in delivering renewable energy projects and shares our commitment to a cleaner, greener future and long-term benefits for electricity consumers.”
