Clearway Energy Group and Clearway Energy, Inc. announced the Pine Energy Center in Hopkins County, Texas, has reached commercial operations. The facility combines 300 megawatts (MW) of solar generation with a 200 MW battery storage system, representing a $685 million investmtent in dispatchable, grid-supportive power.
The project is designed to generate enough electricity to power more than 100,000 homes while storing low-cost solar energy for use during periods of peak demand.
"The Pine Forest Energy Center underscores Clearway's commitment to powering Texas with reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy," said John Wood, Chief Development Officer at Clearway. "Our first battery storage facility in the state will help ensure grid reliability, keep the lights on for Texans, and strengthen the communities we call home."
The Construction of Pine Forest, which Blattner Energy led, was able to create approximately 480 jobs.
Over the next two decades, the project is expected to generate more than $58 million in property tax revenue, benefiting local schools, emergency services, and infrastructure. Built on privately leased land, the facility is also intended to provide long-term income stability for participating landowners.
"As a long-term community member and a source of new property tax revenue, the Pine Forest Energy Center will fuel opportunities for local students," said Lydia Walden, Superintendent of Como-Pickton Consolidated Independent School District. "Our schools look forward to partnering with Clearway to provide learning experiences, both in and out of the classroom."
During development and construction, Clearway and Blattner supported local initiatives, including teacher appreciation events, upgrades to the Pine Forest Community Center, and holiday assistance for more than 130 children.
Clearway stated that it will continue comunity engagement efforts during long-term operations through programs such as Adopt-a-School partnerships and contributions to local EMS services.
The launch of the Pine Forest Energy Center further expands Texas's utility-scale solar and battery storage footprint, adding dispatchable clean energy capacity in a state with rapid growing power demand.
With long-term contracts in place and significant local tax contributions projected, the project positions Clearway as a continuing player in Texas's main energy companies.
