Silicon Ranch, one of the nation’s largest independent power producers, and Nextracker, a provider of integrated solar tracker and software solutions, have announced a master supply agreement (MSA) to deliver 1.5 GW of Nextracker’s solar tracker technology to Silicon Ranch projects through 2024, with options to expand as Silicon Ranch’s portfolio grows.
The MSA includes a shared commitment by both companies to increase domestic supply and promote lower-carbon production processes. The emphasis on securing American-made product—using US steel supply—enables Silicon Ranch to support US manufacturing and job creation, improve the carbon footprint of its supply chain, and reduce volatility and logistics risks.
“Despite severe disruption to global supply chains and other pressures facing the solar industry, Silicon Ranch remains committed to maintaining our 100% track record for successful project delivery,” said Reagan Farr, Silicon Ranch co-founder and CEO. “This agreement with Nextracker not only helps us keep our promises to our customers, but also enables us to decarbonize our supply chain and support additional investments in American manufacturing.”
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Nextracker will be the sole customer of a steel production line at the new Steel Dynamics, Inc. facility in Corpus Christi, Texas. The line will be operated by JM Steel. (Courtesy: Nextracker)
Both companies have recently announced additional commitments to increase domestic manufacturing and lower the carbon impact of production.
In April, Silicon Ranch announced an agreement with First Solar to supply 4 GW of advanced, responsibly-produced thin-film solar modules, enabling Silicon Ranch to improve the carbon footprint of its module supply while supporting additional investment in US manufacturing capabilities.
Over the last two months, Nextracker commissioned a new manufacturing facility in Texas, and another in Phoenix. Together, the new manufacturing lines bring Nextracker’s domestic production capacity to 10 GW.
Nashville-based Silicon Ranch pioneered utility-scale solar in the Southeast with the first large-scale solar projects in Tennessee, Georgia, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Kentucky. The company has successfully commissioned every project it has contracted since its inception and has further distinguished itself through its commitment to own and operate each project in its portfolio for the long term. Today Silicon Ranch owns, operates, and maintains more than 150 solar generating facilities in 15 states from New York to California. Earlier this year, Silicon Ranch completed a $775 million equity raise led by Manulife Investment Management.