NJR Clean Energy Ventures (CEV) has started construction on a solar installation that is set to become the largest floating array in the United States.
The 8.9MW floating solar installation is being constructed at the New Jersey American Water Canoe Brook Water Treatment Plant in Millburn.
Using a floating racking system comprising 16,510 solar panels, the clean power generated by the array is set to provide approximately 95% of the facility’s annual power needs through a power purchase agreement with CEV.
Steve Westhoven, president and CEO of New Jersey Resources, said: “Floating solar technology creates new opportunities for bodies of water to be a home for large-scale renewable energy generation and bring the benefits of clean energy to even more customers.
“As a leader in New Jersey’s solar marketplace, we look forward to working with New Jersey American Water to support their power needs and advance the state’s clean energy and climate goals.”
Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water, said: “As the state’s largest water and wastewater utility company, it is essential for us to be good stewards of the environment by operating efficiently and in a manner that helps protect our natural resources.
“This initiative provides a meaningful reduction of traditional energy use that benefits the environment, as well as our customers through limited capital expense and reduced power costs.”
The Canoe Brook project was developed by Solar Renewable Energy (SRE), with RETTEW providing engineering, procurement, and construction services.
Douglas Berry, president and CEO of SRE, said: “NJR Clean Energy Ventures and New Jersey American Water have been fantastic partners for developing this challenging project.
“Through innovative deal structuring, the Canoe Brook team has crafted a project that maximizes the economic benefits of renewable energy, while focusing on New Jersey American Water’s core mission for safe and reliable water service.”
Clayton Bubeck, president and CEO of RETTEW, added: “The Canoe Brook project advances floating solar in the United States, combining the newest technologies for large wattage bifacial panels with next-generation floats and anchoring.
“We’re thrilled to again construct the largest floating array in the United States.”
Canoe Brook will be the second floating solar project in CEV’s portfolio.
The installation is expected to be fully operational in autumn 2022.
Image: Avigator Fortuner/Shutterstock
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