A Sustainable Energy Solution for Valley Center

Nova Renewables LLC, a company founded by long-time Valley Center residents who have been part of the community for the last 30 years, intends to develop a new solar photovoltaic facility on their private land. The land is located near an existing solar facility and away from high-density neighborhoods or critical infrastructure. The site spans 141 acres, approximately half of which will be developed for the solar project, the other half used for generous setbacks and visual mitigation, as well as preservation of agricultural activities.

The project is designed to generate clean, renewable energy, producing an average of 10 megawatts (MWAC), for local consumption by Valley Center and the surrounding communities. Assuming that an average house consumes 4-10 units of electricity per day, a 10 MW solar energy system will power approximately 4000 to 10000 homes per year. The project connects to the distribution side of the substation. This brings lower-cost, cleaner and sustainable electrical power to Valley Center, helping residents lower their electrical bills. The project features at least 4 hours of battery storage using the safest available batteries on the market, using LFP technology, thereby providing residents with power when it is most needed, in the late afternoon and evening periods.

Unlike more commonly used Lithium-Ion batteries, LFP batteries are known for their superior safety, ensuring a reliable and secure energy supply for the community.

The facility will include low-height single-axis solar trackers, non-reflective Canadian Solar 660-watt panels, and inverters, all designed to maximize energy efficiency. The generated power will be seamlessly integrated into the grid via an existing 12 kV overhead distribution line, connecting to the San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E) substation located just ¾ of a mile away. The project has secured a prime interconnection position, ensuring a smooth and efficient energy distribution process.

The project site offers numerous advantages for solar energy production. The land is flat and requires minimal grading, making it an ideal location for construction. With excellent solar resources and proximity to Valley Center Road, the site is easily accessible via existing roads, requiring no additional road construction and creating no additional noise impact on neighbors. Moreover, it is situated approximately one mile from a local fire station, further enhancing the safety and response capabilities in the area.

The project site is surrounded by a mix of land uses, including low-density residential areas, agricultural land, and existing solar farms. To the north lies a 50-acre solar farm, as well as greenhouses and agricultural fields. To the east and west, the area includes single-family homes, a horse ranch, and open land. The site plan ensures generous setbacks and visual mitigation to minimize any impact on neighboring properties, preserving the area’s natural beauty and tranquility. The southern boundary of the site is bordered by avocado orchards with no nearby residences.

By integrating advanced solar and battery storage technology while carefully considering the surrounding community and environment, this project aims to provide a safe, reliable, and sustainable energy solution for Valley Center.