$225 million solar project coming to northern Hidalgo County

A $225 million solar project expected to open in Linn sometime in 2028 is anticipated to have an economic impact of $249 million while generating hundreds of construction jobs in the area and bringing a significant long-term creator of renewable energy to Hidalgo County.

According to a fact sheet from North Carolina based Pine Gate Renewables, the Grapefruit Solar project on FM 1017 just west of U.S. Highway 281 is anticipated to begin construction sometime next year.

The 2,000 acre project will include solar panels, inverters and a substation, construction of which is anticipated to generate about 300 jobs.

Hidalgo County anticipates capital cost expended by Grapefruit on the facility to exceed $225 million.

Pine Gate estimates an “investment in Hidalgo County and a boost for local businesses” to total $249 million.

When the project is complete, the Grapefruit Solar site is expected to produce 249 megawatts of cost-effective renewable energy.

“Grapefruit Solar will deliver long-term economic benefits to Hidalgo County through construction investment, new taxes, landowner payments over the life of the project, and a boost for local businesses during construction,” the fact sheet says.

Pine Gate generally describes itself as being committed to making the development cause as little disruption in the area as possible, saying it’ll work to minimize traffic impact during construction and utilize native, drought-tolerant plants at the site to maintain the look of the natural landscape.

“As a long-term partner, we are committed to the communities where we work and operate, and pride ourselves on being a good neighbor,” Brian Munger, Grapefruit’s project manager, wrote in a letter last year.

On Tuesday, the Hidalgo County Commissioners Court approved a five-year 50% tax abatement for that project.

Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez described the abatement as a relatively moderate incentive for a project expected to have a useful life of 25 to 30 years. He said he also anticipates the project positively impacting industry in the area.

“So there are multiple benefits for this, and we’re very appreciative of them wanting to invest in our area,” he said.