374 MW Solar Project Breaks Ground in Texas as Houston Energy Demand Grows

A new solar project is taking shape in Wharton County as Texas continues to face growing demand for electricity.

OCI Energy, Arava Power, and their project partners broke ground on the 347 MWdc SunRoper Solar project, officially marking the start of construction on a facility expected to begin operations in December 2027.

Located near the Houston metropolitan area, SunRoper is designed to add new generating capacity to one of the largest electricity demand centers in the United States. Once operational, the project will provide electricity to a Fortune 100 company through a long-term power purchase agreement and contribute additional generation to the ERCOT market.

"SunRoper demonstrates how strategic partnerships can help meet Texas' growing demand for electricity through investments in critical energy infrastructure," said Sabah Bayatli, President of OCI Energy.

The project is being jointly developed by OCI Energy and Arava Power, which is financed by ING and constructed by WHC.

Arava Power CEO Ilan Zidkony said the project represents another step in the company's expansion from Israel's solar market into the international renewable energy sector.

ING's Head of Renewables & Power, Scen Wellock, said the company was proud to support the project and praised the collaboration between the development partners.

WHC President of Power, North America, Randel Badeaux, said the company's construction expertise will help deliver the facility while maintaining a focus on safety and quality through its expected 2027 completion.

Once completed, SunRoper is expected to provide significant new solar generation to ERCOT while supporting economic activity in Wharton County during construction throughout the project's operating life.