copper rays solar
NYE COUNTY, NEVADA
Project Overview
Copper Rays Solar, LLC (“Copper Rays Solar Project”) is proposing the development of up to 700-megawatt (MW) solar facility with up to 700 MW, 4-hour battery energy storage system (BESS) on approximately 4,414 acres of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in Nye County, Nevada. The project is expected to be built in phases and would connect to the Gridliance 230 kV Gamebird Substation, south of Pahrump, Nevada.
The Copper Rays Solar Project is expected to operate for up to 40 years, providing significant economic investment to the community, a substantial property tax base for the County and schools, and emission-free renewable energy.
Most environmental surveys and studies are complete, and the project is undergoing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in conformance with National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) requirements. Copper Rays Solar will also seek a Special Use Permit and a Development Agreement from Nye County. If approved, the project could begin construction as early as 2026, bringing an influx of new jobs to the community as well as subcontracting opportunities for specialized services. The Project could begin operating as early as 2027, pending necessary review and approvals.
Timeline
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Copper Rays Solar is committed to being a dedicated member of the community and will work hard to earn the trust of our neighbors. Our engagement goes well beyond job creation, economic investment and the provision of clean, renewable energy. We strive to build lasting partnerships with civic leaders, community organizations and local businesses.
We pride ourselves on being fully transparent in our communications and highly responsive to public feedback throughout the life of the project. We also believe being involved means giving back. We get to know our neighbors and have a long history of supporting local causes the community is passionate about. Whether through employee volunteer opportunities or corporate-level sponsorships, we are always looking for positive ways to stay actively engaged with the community and to serve as a good corporate neighbor.
About Us
Copper Rays Solar, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC (LRE), a leading, long-term owner and operator dedicated to delivering clean, sustainable wind, solar and energy storage projects. LRE currently owns and operates 31 renewable energy facilities across 12 states totaling more than 3,000 MW of installed capacity. OMERS Infrastructure is the investment arm of OMERS, one of Canada’s largest defined benefit pension plans, with C$127.4 billion in net assets (as at June 30, 2023).
Responsible Development
Responsible development is an ethos that runs deep at Leeward Renewable Energy and our subsidiary companies. We develop, own, and operate renewable generation assets for the long term, and are committed to leaving a positive impact on the communities where we operate. We achieve this by prioritizing our values of community partnership, sustainability, and safety.
CLICK HERE for more information about Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC.
Resources
Copper Rays Solar Project Fact Sheet Download Here
frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What will the solar facility look like?
The Copper Rays Solar facility will primarily consist of rows of photovoltaic electric generating modules mounted to steel frames installed on driven steel posts with central inverters spaced throughout the site. The entire perimeter of the project site will be fenced for security and safety.
Will the solar facility reduce my property value?
Well-developed solar projects will not negatively impact property values. A solar energy facility such as Copper Rays Solar is a low-intensity, passive use of land. Once constructed, solar projects do not possess the negative qualities that could theoretically impact property values such as hazardous materials, odor, noise, and excess traffic.
As shown in the visual simulations above, the view of Copper Rays from Pahrump’s residential communities is largely obscured due to significant setback distance and natural topography.
Will the solar facility produce glare or noise?
Solar panel technology has advanced significantly in recent years. Modern solar panels are manufactured with tempered glass and anti-reflective coatings, minimizing glare. The moving mechanical parts of a solar facility produce minimal noise and are typically inaudible beyond the property boundaries based on the setbacks that are included in the facility’s design.
How long will the solar facility be operational?
The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30-40 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last longer.
Who will maintain the property and vegetation?
Copper Rays Solar will be responsible for maintaining the solar facility property. We work diligently with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure proper ground cover, erosion and sediment control, and storm water management. We also implement vegetation management plans and best management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and the proper mitigation of overgrowth.
What happens at the end of the project’s life?
At the end of the life of the Project, Copper Rays Solar’s equipment will be removed at the end of operation, and the land restored according to a BLM restoration and decommissioning plan. The BLM will require a Performance and Reclamation bond for all solar energy projects to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the right‐of‐way authorization.
How will the solar facility affect my community?
Construction will bring new employment opportunities, a large direct investment in the community, and local business generated from the purchase of food, fuel, accommodations, and other local supplies. During the construction period there will be a relatively short-term increase in traffic volume and noise, typical of similar projects.
Once the Project is operational, daily traffic to and from the site will be minimal. Throughout its operational life, the Project will not burden Nye County services and utilities; however, it will contribute substantial revenue to local tax authority and provide clean energy in Nevada.
Contact
If you have additional questions about Copper Rays Solar, please fill out the form below or you may contact us by phone at 775-505-3642 or by email at info@copperrayssolar.com.
