Groundbreaking Held for 347 MW SunRoper Solar Project in Texas, USA; Expected Online in 2027

en.Wedoany.com Reported - OCI Energy, Arava Power, and project partners held a groundbreaking ceremony for the SunRoper solar project in Wharton County, Texas, USA, announcing the official start of construction on the 347 MWdc solar facility.

The SunRoper project is expected to begin commercial operation in December 2027, and will supply power to a Fortune 100 company under a long-term power purchase agreement upon completion. The project site is located adjacent to the Houston metropolitan area, one of the regions with the highest electricity demand in the United States, and the new generating capacity will help alleviate the growing pressure on the local power supply and demand balance.

Company leaders, project partners, and landowners gathered at the groundbreaking ceremony. The project is jointly developed by OCI Energy and Arava Power, with financing provided by ING and WHC serving as the EPC contractor, bringing together several leading organizations in the energy industry.

Sabah Bayatli, President of OCI Energy, stated at the ceremony that SunRoper exemplifies how strategic partnerships can meet Texas's growing electricity demand through investment in critical energy infrastructure, while also opening an important new chapter in the collaboration between OCI Energy and Arava Power, showcasing the combined strength of both parties in development, financing, construction, and energy procurement.

Ilan Zidkony, CEO of Arava Power, noted that SunRoper represents a key step in the company's evolution from a pioneer in the Israeli solar market to an international renewable energy platform, with the partnership with OCI Energy and local relationships supporting its long-term expansion in the U.S. market. He stated that the project reflects the company's focus on building high-quality, long-term renewable energy assets through rigorous execution, further solidifying Arava Power's presence in the United States.

Sven Wellock, Head of Renewable Energy & Power at ING Capital LLC, stated that SunRoper demonstrates the collective achievements of experienced partners in advancing critical energy infrastructure. ING is proud to support OCI Energy and Arava Power, whose vision, leadership, and collaborative approach have moved the project from concept to implementation, and he congratulated the team on reaching this significant milestone.

Randel Badeaux, President of WHC's North America Power Business, stated that as the EPC contractor, WHC will apply its construction expertise to this facility that will deliver substantial power to the Houston region. This groundbreaking represents months of meticulous planning and coordination with OCI Energy, Arava Power, and project partners, and the team will complete construction safely and with high quality through to project completion in 2027.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, representatives from OCI Energy, Arava Power, ING, and WHC delivered speeches, followed by a symbolic shovel ceremony.

Upon operation, the project will contribute significant new generating capacity to the ERCOT electricity market and support local economic activity during both the construction phase and throughout its operational life.