Outgoing Gov. Jay Inslee recently approved a proposed 5,825-acre solar energy project – the state’s largest solar farm to date – in northwest Benton County. 

San Diego-based Innergex Renewable Energy USA is developing the Wautoma Solar project, located 12.5 miles northeast of Sunnyside and one mile south of the interchange of state routes 241 and 24. The focus of the project will be a 470-megawatt solar generation facility coupled with a four-hour, 470 MW battery storage system. 

“When it’s done, this new solar array will produce enough power for 300,000 homes,” Inslee said. “That’s the kind of renewable energy we need to keep our economy going strong while helping us fight climate change.” 

Beyond providing carbon-free power, Innergex says the project will provide benefits to Benton County residents. Landowners participating in the project will receive direct compensation in the form of long-term land lease payments, according to the company’s website.  

The project will also pay property tax to Benton County, estimated at about $3 million to $4 million dollars, in the first year of commercial operation.