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This project represents a critical step towards Texas’ energy future, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate with local stakeholders, landowners and community leaders to ensure the successful implementation of the project. Pine Gate remains committed to the Rio Lago Solar Project, the Bandera community, and the regulatory and permitting processes in Texas.
June 26, 2024
We’re pleased to share an update about ongoing debris management activities on the Rio Lago Solar project.
The Rio Lago Solar Project has begun using an AirBurner FireBox consistent with state and local requirements to burn debris safely onsite. The Air Burner FireBox system utilizes advanced “air curtain” technology to significantly reduce smoke and particulate matter and has been approved by the Fire Marshal. You can learn more about the device by watching this video.
Importantly, this innovative solution will ensure cleaner air for the Bandera community during the debris removal process. We look forward to continuing our commitment to being a good neighbor during the development and construction of the Rio Lago Solar project.
Stay tuned for more updates as we progress with site activities.
May 3, 2024
Over the next few weeks Rio Lago contractors will begin tree debris removal. The company is working with local and county officials to coordinate these efforts. Debris removal will be done by burning in accordance with state and local requirements.
Debris removal will begin the week of May 6 and be completed by the end of June. The timeline for completion may happen sooner, but it is largely weather dependent.
The company is following Bandera permit requirements and coordinating with the Bandera Fire Marshal and TCEQ.
April 5, 2024
Pine Gate is mindful of the solar eclipse that is slated to occur on April 8, 2024, and the influx of visitors that will be coming to Bandera County. The company will not perform any activities during this period that may hinder the viewing of the eclipse or the County’s efforts to navigate the large crowds expected in the area.
March 28, 2024
In February, Pine Gate began site preparation for the Rio Lago solar project. Rio Lago obtained a Construction General Permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality along with other required permits.
Since beginning work in late February, silt fence installation and other best management practices (BMP) have been a primary focus, as part of Pine Gate’s best practices for responsible land management. Silt fencing is a temporary barrier of woven geotextile fabric secured with metal stakes that provides protection for the surrounding land in advance of construction, during construction, and will be removed after soil stabilization is complete.
After installing appropriate silt fencing according to permitted designs, Pine Gate began timbering a portion of the property in compliance with all orders and applicable regulations. Timbering is expected to continue through early April, per the approved plans in full compliance with all regulatory and legal requirements.
February 25, 2024
Pine Gate continued site preparation for the Rio Lago solar project. Silt fence installation continues on the project per design, as part of Pine Gate’s best practices for responsible land management. Silt fencing is a temporary barrier of woven geotextile fabric secured with metal stakes that provide a barrier for the surrounding land in advance of construction, during construction, and will be removed after land stabilization is complete.
Prior to Pine Gate arriving on site, timbering was conducted by the landowner for private purposes, and starting Feb 23rd, Pine Gate began timbering a portion of the property specifically for the Rio Lago Project in compliance with the court’s order and all applicable regulations.
February 15, 2024
Pine Gate has fulfilled the recent District Court of Bandera County’s requirements, and pre-construction of the Rio Lago Solar Project has begun in compliance with the Court Order.
Pre-construction work includes staging equipment and surveying for the installation of silt fencing. And during this process, the company has not accessed public or private land without permission.
The road-grading and associated timbering activity that has been reported to have already occurred is unrelated to the Rio Lago Solar Project and is not being performed by or on behalf of Pine Gate or the Rio Lago Solar Project.
Founded in 2016, Pine Gate Renewables is a developer and owner-operator of utility scale solar and energy storage projects across the United States. We are dedicated to the deployment of clean energy and have extensive experience in the development, financing, construction, and operation of solar and energy storage facilities.
As a trusted partner and leader in the industry, we have closed more than $7 billion in project financing and capital investment. Our operational fleet includes over 100 solar facilities accounting for more than two gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity. With more than 30 GW of projects in development, we are generating the Power of TomorrowTM.
We’re here to listen and engage with the communities where we live, work, and operate. If you would like to ask a question about this solar project, provide feedback, or have a conversation with a member of the Pine Gate team, please click below to get started.
