As one of the most cost-effective sources of electricity available today, solar power is instrumental to achieving net zero targets in Washington County, Iowa.
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Bechtel is supporting the continued growth of solar infrastructure in Iowa, U.S., by developing Goldfinch Solar, an up to 200-Megawatt facility that is expected to generate enough clean energy to power up to 33,000 homes per year. The project is expected to achieve commercial operation by 2025, subject to the interconnection study process.
The power generated from Goldfinch Solar will be delivered into the local Iowa electrical grid, helping diversify the state’s energy portfolio. One in four households in Iowa rely on electricity for heating. Given solar power’s ability to produce energy at peak times, increasing solar generation will 
ensure more flexibility in the grid and reduce electricity costs for Iowans.
The facility will be built on private land in Washington County, Iowa, near existing transmission lines, reducing the need for new infrastructure. Low panel height will also protect visibility to neighbors and on nearby roads.
Washington County economic benefits
The facility offers new sources of long-term local and state tax revenues for schools, government services, and public infrastructure and by creating direct and indirect jobs during construction and operations. Additionally, Goldfinch Solar will provide business opportunities in Washington County for companies seeking to expand to locations with access to renewable power.
Fast facts
- Goldfinch Solar is based in Washington County, Iowa.
- The 200MW facility will provide power for up to 33,000 homes.
- Existing transmission lines will ensure the cost of the project is managed as the need for new infrastructure will be limited.
- Low panel heights will protect visibility for neighbors.
- Taxpayers are protected against decommissioning costs.
Our experience in renewables
Building on a history of partnering with customers and communities to deliver projects that enable current and future generations to thrive, Bechtel is applying over half a century of experience in power generation to work with the people of Washington County to reduce carbon emissions. In fact, Goldfinch Solar is not the first project Bechtel has developed in Iowa. Through a joint venture, we're co-developing Salt Creek Wind in Tama County, Iowa, which is set to generate 270MW of wind energy once completed.
Bechtel has also helped customers create solar projects around the world. In addition to NRG's operational Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System, Bechtel co-developed and is currently building Advanced Power's Cutlass Solar. On the more global front, we're helping Sun Cable deliver the Australia-Asia PowerLink, and we look forward to continuing to push the boundaries in this rapidly growing market as we develop more of our own projects and build toward a net zero future.
Bechtel has retained the services of Conifer Power Company to assist with certain project development activities for Goldfinch Solar.
If you have any questions about the planned Goldfinch Solar facility, let us know at [email protected].