TG Magazine Prescott Valley - Spring 2021 - The Tech Issue

Page 31

1874 T H E

SOLAR PROJECT

The Fains Spur Solar Development in Prescott Valley.

I’D PUT MY MONEY ON THE SUN AND SOLAR ENERGY. WHAT A SOURCE OF POWER! Thomas Edison

-Angie Johnson-Schmit

A

s Arizona turns to clean, sustainable electricity sources, solar energy has become a first choice for many communities. With an average of 273 sunny days per year and relatively flat terrain, Prescott Valley, Arizona has a lot of advantages for a solar project. Committed to building and supporting community, family and the environment, the Fain family recognizes the value of bringing sustainable energy to the area. Solar power was the logical choice.

Solar project was formed.

The Fain family first partnered with Arizona Power Developers (AZPD) to explore the potential for bringing solar power to the region. Once viability was affirmed, they sought out a larger, more experienced development partner. With over 30 utility-scale solar, wind and pumped storage hydro projects under their belt, renewable energy development company rPlus Energies fit the bill. Out of that partnership, the 1874

Solar developers looking to build a utility-scale project have plenty to consider when choosing a location. Before any solar site is chosen, an array of project requirements must be investigated, including geological makeup and potential environmental impact. A section of the Fain family-owned Rafter Eleven Ranch in Prescott Valley checked all the boxes for rPlus Energies.

Named for the year the Fain family first arrived in Arizona, the 1874 Solar project will bring utility-scale solar power to the Prescott Valley area. The Fain family has worked this land for generations. “We were looking to continue to use the land,” said Brad Fain. “That’s what we’ve done for 140 years.” This project will continue that tradition while also fulfilling his father’s vision of building a vibrant community.


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.