Scout Clean Energy and First Solar Inc. have signed an agreement to supply 378MW DC of thin-film, advanced photovoltaic (PV), solar modules.
Scout, a renewable energy developer headquartered in Colorado and owner-operator, is actively developing a portfolio that includes over 12,000MW of solar PV, onshore wind, and battery storage. It is located in 21 US states. Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners portfolio company Scout. Scout plans to use the First Solar modules for construction of several late-stage projects, with operations starting in 2024.
“We’re excited to partner with First Solar as we continue to develop and grow our portfolio of solar PV assets across the US. This deal reflects our confidence not just in the technology, but in First Solar itself,” says Michael Rucker, founder and CEO of Scout Clean Energy. “Sourcing our modules from a U.S.-based supply partner at this challenging time solidifies our competitive advantage in meeting our customers urgent timing needs for solar power to meet their decarbonization goals.”
“As we diversify Scout’s asset base and grow our solar portfolio, we want to source our panels through partners that we can trust to deliver with no compromise on quality, ethical sourcing of raw materials and who is committed to ongoing innovation,” Rucker adds. “First Solar readily satisfies those critical criteria for Scout.”
First Solar’s PV modules are designed and developed at its research and development centers in California and Ohio.
“Experienced developers like Scout Clean Energy understand the criticality of both insulating themselves from pricing and supply volatility, and staying true to their values and principles,” said Adam Smith, vice president of global business development at First Solar. “They also recognize the value of technological and supply diversity, and of a competitive product that embodies sustainability and transparency. Together, these factors are invaluable in helping them navigate some of the headwinds that others in the industry struggle with.”