【SMM Analysis】Avantus Advances Permitting Process for 500MW Solar and Battery Storage System in California

Avantus, a leading developer of utility-scale solar and solar-plus-storage projects in the United States, is seeking permits for its Big Rock 2 solar and energy storage complex in Imperial County, California. Following the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review process, Imperial County has identified potential significant environmental impacts and has issued a Notice of Preparation (NOP) and an Initial Study (IS), with plans to conduct a comprehensive Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The public and all interested stakeholders can submit comments on the report by October 7, 2024, which the Imperial County Department of Planning and Development Services will consider upon completion of the project's EIR.

A map outline of the land plots where Avantus plans to construct the project. Image: Avantus.

Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, 90FI 8me, LLC, Avantus is seeking approval for four separate Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) associated with the construction of the Big Rock 2 complex. The project, planned across four sites, intends to construct a 500MWac solar power plant, complemented by up to 500MW of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity. Although the battery technology for deployment is yet to be determined, Avantus has indicated that it may include commercial lithium-ion or flow batteries compliant with Imperial County and national BESS fire safety standards.

San Diego Community Power (SDCP), a California Community Choice Aggregator (CCA), has signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Avantus, covering 74MW/296MWh of resource adequacy from the battery storage portion of the Big Rock 2 project, commencing delivery in December 2027. This agreement is contingent upon Avantus securing the project's CAISO grid interconnection through a transfer request.

Since its establishment in 2009, Avantus has developed and sold a total of 7.3GWdc of solar and 17GWh of energy storage projects. With a significant market presence and a successful development track record in the southwestern United States, California, and Texas electricity markets, the company supports local communities and the environment. Recently, Avantus appointed Cliff Graham as CEO, who brings over 15 years of leadership in clean energy development and expertise across all stages, from land acquisition and permitting to power marketing, financing, and construction.

In July 2024, global investment firm KKR completed the acquisition of a majority stake in Avantus and arranged $522 million in development financing, arranged by KKR Capital Markets and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC). This financing provides Avantus with the financial backing to accelerate the deployment of its pipeline, including some of the largest solar and energy storage projects in the United States. KKR and EIG, as Avantus's sole equity investors, have jointly committed over $1 billion in equity and debt to support Avantus's growth.

Given the growing global demand for sustainable energy solutions, Avantus's latest development, along with its extensive expertise and experience in solar and energy storage, signals a significant role for the company in the United States' transition to clean energy. Avantus's expansion and innovation strategies are poised to deliver substantial long-term value for the company and its partners.