J-Power to convert Virginia coal plant into solar and storage facility

The project construction and redevelopment will begin from 2022.

Japan-based power company J-Power is set to turn the retired coal-fired Birchwood Power Facility in Virginia, USA into facilities that will generate and store clean renewable energy, the company said in a press release.

Its local subsidiary, J-Power USA, will partner with the Fortress Investment Group jointly agreed to pursue development of Birchwood Solar, a 50 MWac solar plant, and Birchwood Storage, a 190 MWac energy storage facility.

Construction will begin next year, with commercial operations expected to commence in 2023.

Birchwood is J-Power USA’s third solar project in development, and is a part of its new initiative to add renewable generation to its existing portfolio, according to the company.

“This project is part of J-Power USA's plan to increase our renewable portfolio and continue our efforts to build a cleaner sustainable energy future," J-Power USA president and CEO Mark Condon said.

The retired coal plant had been in operation since 1996 until its recent retirement.