Largest solar plant in the Caribbean connected to the Puerto Rican grid

The energization of the 45 MW plant was done by Oriana Energy, a subsidiary of French-based solar power producer Sonnedix Group, in partnership with Yarotek, who have now completed two PV projects in Puerto Rico in quick succession.

September 15, 2016 Sam Pothecary

Image: Sonnedix

It’s an exciting time for French-based Sonnedix Group, as the company was recently bought out by investors advised by J.P. Morgan, after two years of significant growth. Today the company can celebrate another landmark event, as it has connected to the grid the largest solar PV plant in the Caribbean.

The 45 MW Oriana Solar Farm, which was built by Greece-based METKA-EGN, had over US$160 million invested in it. The plant will go a long way to helping the island cut down on carbon emissions, while also creating over 1,000 jobs throughout its development.

“The energization of the largest solar power plant in the Caribbean will bring a large amount of clean, green energy to Puerto Rico,” commented Sonnedix CEO Andreas Mustad. “It is a landmark moment for Sonnedix. With this milestone, we have more than tripled our operating capacity over the past eighteen months.”

Oriana Energy worked with U.S. company Yarotek to connect the plant the Puerto Rico Electricity Power Authority’s (PREPA) electrical transmission grid. It is the second utility-scale PV plant that the two have developed together in Puerto Rico, as the island looks to reduce its reliance on oil-based fuel.

“To keep our promise to begin producing clean energy in the month of August, we worked hand in hand with PREPA and our contractors to meet our goal and the commitment made to the people of Puerto Rico,” said Sonnedix Executive Vice-President Joern Hackbarth.

“The Oriana Solar Farm undoubtedly represents another important step in helping PREPA reduce the purchase of oil-based fuel and integrate clean energy sources into our grid,” added Executive Director of PREPA Javier Quintana. “Projects of this nature lead us toward environmental compliance and fuel price stabilization for the benefit of our customers.”

Sonnedix has been on a sharp growth trajectory in the last couple of years, culminating in the company being acquired by investors that are advised by J.P. Morgan Asset Management. The acquisition is to allow Sonnedix to pursue further opportunities in the global solar market.

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