Global sustainable energy solutions developer Invenergy has announced the start of commercial operations of its 160MW Southern Oak solar energy centre.
 
Located in Mitchell County, Georgia, the solar facility is said to be Invenergy’s largest solar project so far and its 100th project.
 
Invenergy executive vice-president and chief development officer Bryan Schueler said: “The start of commercial operations at Southern Oak is an incredible achievement for Invenergy as we celebrate not only our largest solar project but also our 100th project to come online.
 
“We are proud to have delivered on our promise to invest in the local economy and create jobs while leveraging our expertise to support Georgia Power in its efforts to increase solar development in Georgia.”
 
Construction works at the site began in 2018 and the project is said to have created more than 400 employees in the region during this phase.
 
The project was constructed by Renewable Energy Systems (RES), a global engineering and construction company that provides its services for wind, solar, transmission and energy storage projects.
 
Southern Oak is expected a generate a revenue of more than $12m during the first ten years of operations in the form of tax payments and lease payments.
 
Mitchell County Development Authority executive director Paige Gilchrist said: “Southern Oak has been a huge win for our community, bringing both short- and long-term economic investment to Mitchell County.
 
“Construction of the project has been a huge boost to local retailers, and the project will provide tax dollars for many years to come.”