Renewable Energy Expansion: Bechtel’s New Utility-Scale Solar Facility
Construction has begun on the Escape Solar Project, a 226-megawatt (MW) direct current photovoltaic (PV) solar facility in Lincoln County, Nevada. Selected by Estuary Power, Bechtel will design, engineer, and construct the solar project, which spans 900 acres and features cutting-edge bifacial PV solar panels. This technology allows both sides of the panels to absorb sunlight, enhancing efficiency and contributing to the region’s clean energy goals.
The project, which is scheduled for completion in Q3 2025, will produce renewable energy for MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, Wynn Las Vegas, and Overton Power District, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
Project Highlights
- Capacity: 226 MW direct current.
- Technology: Bifacial PV solar panels, capable of generating energy from sunlight on both sides.
- Scope: Engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and project management.
- Scale: ~389,000 solar panels across 900 acres.
Kelley Brown, Operations Manager of Bechtel’s Renewables & Clean Power division, emphasized the company’s commitment:
“We look forward to building a facility that will generate renewable energy for decades and contribute to Nevada’s successful history of renewable power generation.”
Estuary Power and Bechtel Collaboration
The partnership between Bechtel and Estuary Power builds on their longstanding relationship. Estuary CEO Jill Daniel expressed confidence in Bechtel’s expertise:
“Bechtel’s heritage of excellence and professionalism makes them the perfect partner to deliver the Escape Solar Project in this challenging sector.”
Sustainability Impact
The Escape Solar Project joins a growing list of renewable energy facilities designed and built by Bechtel. Collectively, Bechtel’s ten solar facilities across the U.S. will generate enough energy to power over 500,000 homes annually.
Additionally, Estuary Power, a majority woman-owned company, is supported by the Ullico Infrastructure Fund, which focuses on sustainable U.S. infrastructure projects.
About Bechtel
Founded in 1898, Bechtel is a leading engineering, construction, and project management company. With a portfolio of over 25,000 projects in 160 countries, Bechtel is committed to creating a safer, cleaner world by aligning its capabilities with customer objectives.
Learn more about Bechtel’s contributions to renewable energy at www.bechtel.com.