A massive 1.2-gigawatt solar project has commenced construction in an existing coal-mining area between Dallas and Houston, Texas. The $1.7 billion Big Rooter Power project is funded by Panamint Capital, with SOLV Energy serving as the EPC contractor. First Solar panels and Nextpower trackers will be installed.

The first phase of the project, the 491-megawatt Big Rooter West, is expected to enter commercial operation in August 2028. The 658-megawatt Big Rooter East will commence construction next year and begin commercial operation in August 2029. These two projects will create over 800 construction jobs.

These projects will be located near the Twin Oaks Power Station, which is situated in Bremond, Texas, and includes a 310-megawatt coal-fired power plant.

"Big Rooter Power embodies our vision of fully utilizing the U.S. energy infrastructure and ensuring American energy dominance," said Apolka Totth, CEO of Panamint. "Upon completion, the Twin Oaks complex will have 1.5 gigawatts of operational thermal and renewable energy, along with over 20 miles of new 345-kilovolt transmission lines, 1.6 gigawatt-hours of battery storage, and 790 megawatts of zero-emission data center capacity developed on our 10,000-acre site.". ”

There are no plans to shut down coal-fired power plants.

"Big Rooter is a landmark project that reflects the scale of investment in the future of U.S. energy," said George Hershman, CEO of SOLV Energy. "We are proud to collaborate with Panamint to help realize their vision. From project delivery to long-term asset performance, our focus is on creating enduring value for the community, customers, and stakeholders."