Bechtel to design, engineer, and build $1.5bn Indiana solar energy facility

Bechtel will deliver the Mammoth South, Mammoth Central I, and Mammoth Central II photovoltaic power plants in Pulaski County. Last week, energy company Doral Renewables announced the closing of a $1.5 billion project financing for the construction of the plants, which will account for 900MW of the 1.3GW planned at the complex.

Doral Renewables and Bechtel started construction preparatory works earlier this year and Doral has now granted Bechtel full notice to proceed (FNTP).

Bechtel will now complete design and start permanent construction works, including installing solar panels, power cables, and substations.

Over the next two years, the three phases of construction will involve the installation of two million solar modules, one million of which will be made in the US.

At peak construction, the project will create 1,200 jobs, including at least 15% dedicated to apprenticeships.

After completion in 2027, the complex is expected to provide power to around 200,000 homes in the Midwest.

Scott Austin, Bechtel general manager of renewables and clean power, said, “A project of this scale depends on strong collaboration with local building trades to ensure access to the skilled workforce needed. We’re working closely with craft professionals, creating high-quality jobs, and being a reliable partner to the community as we help deliver Mammoth Solar and increase the supply of clean, reliable solar power.”