Duke Energy starts construction of two new solar projects in Florida
In Florida, Duke Energy Florida announced that two new solar projects will begin construction later this month in Bay and Madison counties. The firm said that the new projects are part of the company’s community solar program, Clean Energy Connection. The construction of these new projects will begin in March and will take approximately nine to 12 months to complete, creating approximately 200 to 300 temporary jobs during that time. Mule Creek Renewable Energy Center will be built on approximately 700 acres and once operational, the 74.9-megawatt (MW) facility will consist of approximately 175,000 solar panels. Meanwhile, Winquepin Renewable Energy Center will be built on approximately 530 acres in Madison County. Once operational, the 74.9-MW facility will consist of approximately 220,000 solar panels. At peak output, each site will generate enough carbon-free electricity to power what would be equivalent to around 23,000 homes, the company said. Through the Clean Energy Connection program, Duke Energy Florida customers can subscribe to solar power and earn credits toward their electricity bills without having to install or maintain their own equipment.