Avangrid, a subsidiary of Iberdrola Group, announced the commencement of solar panel installation for the Oregon Trail Solar Project in Gilliam County, Oregon. This 57-megawatt energy project marks a significant milestone in its construction, supporting 200 local union jobs.

"The installation of solar panels at the Oregon Trail Solar Project marks a significant milestone in advancing new energy infrastructure for Oregon," said Jose Antonio Miranda, CEO of Avangrid. "Projects like Oregon Trail are creating jobs, supporting local communities, and helping meet the region's growing electricity demand."

Upon completion next year, the Oregon Trail Solar Project will include over 100,000 solar panels and generate enough electricity annually to power approximately 10,000 U.S. households.

In addition to creating job opportunities, Avangrid also anticipates that the project will contribute $6 million in combined local taxes (in lieu taxes) and property taxes to Gillem County over its lifecycle, supporting various public services, including schools and infrastructure.

The Oregon Trail is adjacent to Avangrid's operational Pachwáywit Fields solar project and its recently announced Shutler Energy Storage project. Today, Avangrid operates over 2.5 gigawatts of capacity in Oregon, including the Daybreak Solar and Bakeoven Solar projects in Wasco County, as well as the Tower Solar project in Morrow County.