Pennsylvania Launches 46-MW Solar Project to Provide Utility Grants to LMI Communities

Four Twelve Renewables, an innovative energy developer, is proudly announcing the launch of its first utility-scale solar facility in Greene Township, Beaver County, Pennsylvania. Named BE Pine, this groundbreaking 46-MWDC facility comprises approximately 98,000 bifacial solar panels. This project marks a significant milestone in Four Twelve Renewables’ journey, as it is the inaugural project in the company’s portfolio.

BE Pine stands as a testament to Four Twelve Renewables’ commitment to harnessing clean, abundant natural resources for energy generation. The company’s unique mission extends beyond just producing renewable energy; it aims to generate funds to support non-profit organizations that provide essential services to households in the areas where it operates. This project is a collaborative effort, funded through a combination of contributions from the local foundation community, public-private partnerships, and private investments.

Now fully operational, BE Pine is not only producing clean, renewable energy but also establishing a sustainable funding source for local non-profit organizations. In a strategic partnership with the Dollar Energy Fund, Four Twelve Renewables plans to use the proceeds from this project, along with matching funds from Dollar Energy Fund’s utility partners, to offer utility assistance grants. These grants, available once per year for each qualifying household, aim to provide basic natural gas, water, wastewater, and electric utility services to low- and moderate-income households in Southwestern Pennsylvania experiencing hardship.

Paul Atencio, a board member of Four Twelve Renewables, highlighted the project’s significance: “The concept of capturing power from the sun and using it to establish a funding mechanism to provide community support and utility assistance, is extremely viable. This initiative serves as a great model and can be replicated to benefit communities throughout the Commonwealth.”

The impact of the Beaver County facility is substantial. Over the next 35 years, it is expected to support and sustain 250,000 low- and limited-income households with more than $75 million in utility assistance. This figure represents a 30% increase over the projections made by the Dollar Energy Fund without the proceeds from the solar facility.

Jody Robertson, director of communications for Dollar Energy Fund, emphasized the project’s importance: “As the need for utility assistance continues to grow, we are always looking for innovative ways to meet that challenge. This project will provide tremendous help to our communities all while utilizing a clean natural resource.”

The facility was constructed over the past twelve months on land that was previously non-productive. The energy generated will be transmitted to the electrical grid through an agreement with Duquesne Light Company and a Wholesale Market Participation Agreement with PJM Interconnection.

Funding for the BE Pine project was provided by First National Bank of Pennsylvania (FNB). FNB and its equipment finance subsidiary collaborated with Four Twelve Renewables to develop a creative financing package that extended beyond standard lending agreements.

Vincent J. Delie, Jr., chairman, president, and CEO of F.N.B. Corporation and First National Bank, spoke about the project’s broader impact: “At FNB, we invest in projects that create a positive impact in our communities as part of our driving mission to improve the quality of life in the areas we serve. This solar field project truly is unique for Pennsylvania. In addition to creating jobs and bringing economic relief to thousands in the region, it serves as a model of thoughtful sustainability, both here and nationally.”

Additionally, Pennsylvania American Water has committed to a 15-year power purchase agreement to support the development of this innovative facility in Pennsylvania. This agreement further underscores the collaborative effort and shared vision of various stakeholders in making the BE Pine project a success and a model for sustainable development and community support.