EDF power solutions North America and Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company - Masdar, co-owners of the BigBeau Solar+Storage Project, have entered into 15-year power purchase agreements covering the output from the 128 megawatt (MWac) solar plant and its 40 MW/160 MWh battery energy storage system. Located in Kern County, California, the BigBeau project has been operational since December 2022 and began delivering electricity to Southern California Edison (SCE) under these agreements on February 1, 2026. The long-term contracts underscore the growing importance of integrated renewable energy and storage solutions in meeting utility-scale clean energy demands.
BigBeau Solar+Storage Project Details
The Kern County facility combines 128 MWac of solar generation with 40 MW/160 MWh of battery storage capacity, creating a hybrid renewable energy system designed to enhance grid reliability and flexibility. Southern California Edison receives power under the long-term agreements, supporting the utility's clean energy objectives. The project represents operational renewable infrastructure that began commercial deliveries in early 2026, marking a significant milestone in the deployment of utility-scale solar-plus-storage technologies. By pairing generation with storage, the facility can deliver consistent power even during periods of low solar irradiance, addressing intermittency challenges common in renewable energy systems.
Masdar-EDF Partnership Portfolio
This agreement advances a seven-project development partnership between Masdar and EDF power solutions targeting 1.1 GW of combined capacity. Masdar, active in the U.S. since 2019, has invested several billion dollars in the market and plans to develop up to 25 GW of clean energy capacity over the next decade. EDF power solutions brings 35 years of renewable development experience and 26 GW of completed wind, solar, and storage projects across North America. Together, the companies aim to deliver scalable, utility-grade clean energy solutions that align with regional grid modernization efforts and long-term decarbonization goals.
Energy Sector Collaboration
Dustin Priemer, Director Asset Management Masdar Americas, noted the agreement reflects Masdar's expanding U.S. portfolio and commitment to utility-scale clean power. Jacqueline de Fresart, Associate Director of Origination and Power Marketing at EDF power solutions North America, emphasized support for SCE's clean energy goals through reliable power delivery. Both executives highlighted the strategic value of the partnership, with Priemer underscoring Masdar’s focus on scaling reliable infrastructure and de Fresart pointing to the project’s role in advancing integrated energy solutions from grid-scale power to electric vehicle charging.
Key Takeaways
- BigBeau Solar+Storage Project delivers 128 MWac solar and 40 MW/160 MWh storage to Southern California Edison under 15-year agreements
- Project achieved commercial operation in December 2022 and began power deliveries on February 1, 2026
- Masdar and EDF power solutions partnership encompasses seven projects totaling 1.1 GW of capacity
EnergyInsyte's Take
This long-term PPA secures revenue for operational renewable infrastructure while expanding both companies' U.S. presence. The agreement demonstrates continued utility demand for integrated solar-plus-storage solutions, though broader market adoption rates and economic returns across similar projects remain to be seen. Energy executives should monitor how these partnerships scale amid evolving grid requirements and permitting timelines.
Source: Businesswire
