Avantus' Aratina 1 project in Kern County, California has started commercial operations and is now delivering 200 MW of solar and 500 MWh of energy
Commercial operations have officially begun at Avantus’ Aratina 1 facility in Kern County, California, bringing 200 MW of solar generation capacity and 500 MWh of battery energy storage online to supply electricity to the grid.
The entire output of the project is covered by long-term power purchase agreements signed with Central Coast Community Energy and Silicon Valley Clean Energy, both of which operate as community choice aggregators (CCAs). The electricity generated by the facility is expected to provide enough clean energy each year to meet the needs of more than 105,000 homes across California.
“The Aratina project is a powerful example of how community choice energy turns climate goals into real projects on the ground. Our long term commitment to 120 MW from this facility will deliver clean, affordable power to our customers while supporting California’s transition away from fossil fuels,” said Robert Shaw, CEO of Central Coast Community Energy. “We’re grateful to partner with Avantus on a project that strengthens grid reliability and invests in the Central Coast’s clean energy future.”
Construction of the project supported roughly 500 jobs during its busiest period, and the facility is expected to continue creating local employment through operations positions over its lifetime. Earlier this year, Avantus also established the Boron Community Partnership Panel, a community-driven body made up of local residents and organizations. The panel serves as a continuing platform for engagement with the surrounding community while helping shape local investment priorities, particularly initiatives focused on youth development, education, civic programs, cultural activities, and broader community-building opportunities.
“The clean power generated from the Aratina project gets us one step closer to our climate goals. New projects like this are critical in increasing state-wide clean capacity and reliability as we reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and move towards an all-electric future,” said Monica Padilla, CEO of Silicon Valley Clean Energy.
Development is also progressing on Aratina 2, the second phase of the Aratina Solar Center, which is being built next to Aratina 1. The project recently secured financing exceeding $525 million and is aiming to begin commercial operations before the end of the year. After both phases are complete, the Aratina Solar Center will have a total installed capacity of 350 MW of solar generation along with 952 MWh of energy storage.
Originally reported by Solar Power World on Jul 20, 2026.
