BP PLC, through its solar energy arm Lightsource BP, has inaugurated the 187-megawatt (MW) Peacock Solar Project in San Patricio County, Texas.
This state-of-the-art solar facility is designed to power Exxon Mobil Corporation’s and Saudi Basic Industries Corporation’s Gulf Coast Growth Ventures petrochemical complex, a significant step towards reducing industrial carbon emissions.
About the Gulf Coast Growth Ventures Complex
The petrochemical complex, managed by ExxonMobil, features cutting-edge infrastructure, including an ethane steam cracker.
This cracker boasts an ethylene production capacity of 1.8 million metric tons annually (MMtpa). The ethylene output is used in three major derivative units:
- One monoethylene glycol unit (1.1 MMtpa capacity)
- Two polyethylene units (combined capacity of 1.3 MMtpa)
These products are essential components in manufacturing a wide range of everyday items like plastics and textiles.
Environmental Impact of the Peacock Solar Project
The Peacock Solar Project is expected to generate 360,000 megawatt-hours of renewable energy annually, which will help cut the petrochemical complex’s greenhouse gas emissions by over 256,000 metric tons per year.
This reduction is equivalent to removing approximately 55,000 gasoline-powered cars from the roads, according to Lightsource BP.
Helen Brauner, Interim Chief Operating Officer of Lightsource BP, highlighted the broader benefits of the project:
“The Peacock Solar project adds to Lightsource BP’s operational fleet in Texas, helping reduce carbon emissions while diversifying the state’s energy mix to enhance security and reliability.”
Community and Economic Benefits
The Peacock project is set to make a positive impact on the local economy and environment in several ways:
- Job Creation: Over 300 onsite construction jobs were supported during the building phase.
- Tax Revenue: The project will generate $25 million in tax revenue for the local community over the next 25 years.
- Biodiversity Initiatives: The site will cultivate vegetation, including native species, to support pollinators and wildlife. It will also allow sheep grazing, blending agriculture with renewable energy production (agrivoltaics).
- Support for U.S. Manufacturers: The project used ultra-low carbon solar panels from Arizona-based First Solar and advanced tracking systems from Connecticut-based GameChange Solar.
Brauner emphasized the environmental and local community benefits, stating:
“By layering on biodiversity and agrivoltaics initiatives, projects like Peacock offer a win-win for both the environment and local communities.”
Lightsource BP’s Solar Expansion in Texas
Lightsource BP, which became a fully owned subsidiary of BP in 2024, is actively expanding its solar energy footprint in Texas. The company operates three additional solar facilities in the state:
- Impact Solar (260 MW, Lamar County)
- Elm Branch Solar (163 MW, Ellis County)
- Briar Creek Solar (153 MW, Navarro County)
Additionally, two new projects are under development:
- Starr Solar (163 MW, Starr County)
- Second Division Solar (125 MW, Brazoria County)
The Second Division Solar farm, expected to start operations by late 2024, will supply enough electricity to power 20,500 U.S. homes annually while reducing carbon emissions equivalent to taking 33,300 cars off the road.
BP’s Renewable Energy Goals
BP has set an ambitious goal to approve 50 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of its broader sustainability strategy.
In October 2024, BP completed its acquisition of Lightsource BP, reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy. Despite this acquisition, Lightsource BP retains its independent operating model and continues to deliver clean energy solutions globally.
Lightsource BP’s business model involves developing solar projects and selling majority stakes to strategic partners, enabling long-term financial sustainability while accelerating renewable energy adoption worldwide.
The launch of the Peacock Solar Project marks another milestone in BP’s journey toward clean energy and carbon reduction.
With its significant environmental benefits, economic contributions, and support for biodiversity, the project is a prime example of how renewable energy can integrate seamlessly with industrial operations.
Lightsource BP’s ongoing expansion in Texas further demonstrates its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and energy diversification, making it a leader in the global renewable energy space.