Matrix Renewables commissions Idaho’s largest solar power plant

Matrix Renewables and rPlus Energies have completed the commissioning of Pleasant Valley Solar 1, a 261 MWdc project located in Ada County, Idaho, now the largest solar facility in Idaho Power’s network.

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Matrix Renewables, a global renewable energy platform backed by TPG Rise, and its development partner rPlus Energies have announced the commissioning of the Pleasant Valley Solar 1 facility in Ada County, Idaho. The site, with a production capacity of 200 MWac (261 MWdc), is now the most powerful solar installation in Idaho Power’s grid.

The project was made possible through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) signed with Idaho Power and Meta Platforms Inc. The agreement was structured under an Energy Services Agreement model, specifically tailored for this initiative. This contractual framework was designed to ensure long-term supply stability while enabling optimised distribution of energy flows across the regional network.

A strategic project for the local grid

Construction was led by Sundt Renewables, the selected provider for Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) services. Completion was recorded on 2 March, with up to 220 workers engaged during the construction phase.

The commissioning of Pleasant Valley Solar 1 marks a significant step forward for Matrix Renewables’ operations in the United States, while reinforcing the local presence of rPlus Energies, which has one of its two offices in Ada County. The project aligns with a targeted investment strategy focused on building structured energy partnerships with major operators.

Enduring industrial partnerships

The facility is expected to supply part of Meta’s energy needs under its procurement commitments while enhancing Idaho Power’s grid flexibility. The latter, a local public utility, continues to diversify its generation portfolio.

Matrix Renewables remains the majority owner of the plant, with rPlus Energies holding a minority stake. The project highlights the emergence of hybrid investment models in the US solar sector, combining institutional capital with locally anchored development.

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