Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 15, Vesper Energy, a US renewable energy developer, has started commercial operations at its Hornet Solar project in Swisher County, Texas. The facility, with a capacity of 600 MWac/745 MWdc, spans 4,000 acres and is one of the largest solar installations in the United States. It features over 1.36 million solar modules and can generate enough electricity to power approximately 160,000 homes.
The project spans 4,000 acres and comprises more than 1.36 million solar modules.
The project employs bifacial photovoltaic modules mounted on a single-axis tracking system, designed to maximize energy efficiency. Hornet Solar is integrated into Oncor Electric’s transmission network under the Electric Reliability Council of Texas framework. Vesper Energy has secured agreements with four partners to supply electricity through separate power purchase contracts.
Juan Suarez, co-chief executive officer of Vesper Energy, said: “Hornet Solar is a testament to how large-scale energy projects can deliver reliable, domestic power to American homes and businesses. This project isn’t just about solar panels — it’s about making energy more affordable while strengthening our nation’s energy security. With Hornet Solar fully operational, we’re helping power a community with domestically generated electricity, ensuring businesses and communities have the energy they need to grow and thrive.”
Construction of Hornet Solar began in autumn 2023, creating over 300 jobs during its development phase. In January 2024, Vesper Energy obtained $590 million in financing to support the project’s completion. The facility is expected to contribute more than $100 million in tax revenue to the local economy, including $61 million for the Tulia Independent School District, $25 million for Swisher County, and $12 million for the Swisher Memorial Hospital District.
Zach Wald, Vesper Energy’s vice-president of engineering, procurement, and construction, stated: “The scale of Hornet Solar speaks for itself — 1.36 million panels, over six square miles and 600MW of capacity. But the real impact is what this project delivers to Swisher County: more than $100m in new tax revenue and meaningful investments in schools, infrastructure and healthcare.”
In June 2024, Vesper Energy transferred ownership of two solar facilities, including Hornet Solar, to Octopus Energy, a UK-based company. The project’s completion marks a significant step in expanding renewable energy capacity in Texas, supporting local communities with sustainable power and economic benefits.
