The solar-energy array is taking shape south of Swift Lake Park.
The 18-acre site is designed to produce three-megawatts of electricity from the sun. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, three-megawatts is enough to power an average of 492 homes nationally, although many factors can affect that calculation.
Heavy equipment was on the site last week, as work continued on the installation of the posts on which solar panels will be erected. Chain-link fencing has been installed around the site’s perimeter.
The solar-energy array is located south of the Swift Lake Park Campground, and west of the park’s paved bike/pedestrian path. A California company, BHE Renewables, is the project owner. M&W Energy of Edina is the solar array’s general contractor. Antares Community Solar Gardens (formerly Geronimo Energy) of Phoenix, AZ, has been the developer.
The City of Tracy, which owns the land, has agreed to a 25-year lease on the city, and will be receiving rent of $700 an acre. Completion is targeted for spring.
The array will be the first large-scale solar array in Tracy.