Eland’s rollout unfolded in two stages. Eland 1, a 384 MW solar farm with 150 MW/600 MWh of storage, began operations in December 2024, while Eland 2, completing the 758 MW capacity, went live in early 2025. The project’s massive scale, spanning 4,600 acres in Kern County, required over $2 billion in investment, with financing secured through a $431 million tax equity commitment from Wells Fargo and $654 million in debt financing led by the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce. San Diego-based SOLV Energy handled engineering, procurement, and construction, ensuring timely completion despite global supply chain challenges.
Strengthening the Grid with Battery Storage
The project’s 300 MW/1,200 MWh battery system, powered by Tesla’s Megapack 2 XL manufactured in Lathrop, California, is a game-changer for grid reliability. These LFP batteries, known for their safety and lack of reported fire incidents since 2019, store solar energy for discharge during peak evening and nighttime demand, addressing challenges like heatwaves and blackouts. This hybrid design ensures a steady, predictable energy supply, enhancing California’s grid resilience as it phases out fossil fuels. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized that Eland’s batteries are key to achieving the city’s ambitious clean energy goals.
Economic and Community Benefits
Eland’s construction created approximately 1,000 jobs, boosting local economies in Kern County. Over its lifetime, the project is expected to contribute $36 million in local government payments, funding schools, first responders, and public services. Arevon has also partnered with community organizations like the Safe Haven Kid’s League of California City, supporting food security, school supplies, and workforce reentry programs. Additionally, contributions to the I Love California City Economic Development Group have funded park cleanups and infrastructure upgrades, fostering community well-being.
Strategic Partnerships and American Manufacturing
Arevon collaborated with top-tier US manufacturers, including Nextracker for solar trackers and Tesla for battery systems, reinforcing domestic supply chains. Since 2022, federal policies have spurred 84 new solar and storage manufacturing facilities nationwide, with Eland exemplifying how private capital and American manufacturing can drive energy independence. The project’s long-term power purchase agreement with the Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA) ensures stable energy delivery to the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and Glendale Water and Power (GWP), benefiting millions of residents.
Advancing California’s Renewable Goals
California, already sourcing 57% of its electricity from renewables, is on track to reach 100% clean energy by 2035. Eland’s contribution, equivalent to removing 120,000 cars’ worth of emissions annually, aligns with this vision. Arevon’s CEO, Kevin Smith, highlighted the project’s role in delivering affordable, reliable energy at scale, noting its status as the largest in the company’s portfolio. With over 3.7 gigawatts of renewable projects in California and 4.5 gigawatts nationwide, Arevon is a leader in the clean energy transition, with additional projects like Peregrine, Vikings, and Condor Energy Storage further bolstering the state’s grid.
A Blueprint for the Future
Eland’s success underscores the power of public-private partnerships. LADWP CEO Janisse Quiñones praised the project’s low-cost solar and storage, which saves ratepayers hundreds of millions over its 25-year contract. The facility’s ability to deliver clean energy after sunset addresses a critical challenge for renewables, setting a model for other states. As demand for electricity surges—driven by data centers, AI, and digital economies—Eland demonstrates how large-scale solar-plus-storage can meet growing needs while supporting economic and environmental goals.
Looking Ahead
With Eland fully operational, Arevon is already advancing new projects, including the Nighthawk, Cormorant, and Avocet Energy Storage initiatives. The company’s $5 billion in capital investments across 17 states signals a robust pipeline for renewable energy. For Los Angeles, Eland is a cornerstone of a greener future, proving that innovative infrastructure can deliver sustainable, reliable power to one of America’s largest cities while fostering local prosperity.
