AES’ Bellefield project is a planned solar + storage facility in Kern County, California. The project represents a significant step in accelerating California's commitment to achieving 100% carbon-free energy by 2045.
We are committed to responsible clean energy development that creates long-term value and positive impact for both the environment and local communities.
Project overview
1 GW solar + up to 1 GW battery energy storage
Enough clean energy to power 467,000
California homes annually
Unincorporated Kern County and California City
Maximo solar robot to be used for autonomous solar module installation
Project details
- Will be constructed in two phases, each to include 500 MW of solar plus 500 MW of four-hour duration battery energy storage
- 14-mile transmission line that will connect the project to the Southern California Edison (SCE) Windhub Substation
- Located on about 8,300 acres of privately owned land
- AES will be the long-term owner and operator of the facility
- Maximo solar robot to be used for autonomous solar module installation
Expected project timeline
- Phase 1 Construction Q3 2023 – 2025
- Phase 2 Construction Q3 2024 – 2026
Economic and environmental benefits
We believe in being a good neighbor, ensuring responsible clean energy development that benefits both the environment and local communities without burdening existing infrastructure.
3,200,000 MWh
Carbon-free electricity generated each year, improving air quality and reducing CO2 emissions
Provides local tax revenue to the community and county
1,000 union jobs
Expected to be created during peak construction, while supporting indirect employment and businesses in the area
Clean energy benefits local communities
- Long-term tax revenue to local communities and school districts
- Job creation during construction and operation
- Local economic stimulus during construction
- Improved air quality and reduced CO2 emissions
- Social impact funding to area community organizations and non-profits
- Non-permanent development and low-impact construction that ensures land can be sensitively restored to pre-project conditions at the end of the project’s life
Best practices in responsible and sustainable development
At AES, safety is our highest priority, and we’ve focused on improving lives for more than 40 years. As a leading innovator in energy solutions, sustainability is core to both our strategy and our culture. We are committed to responsible land use and incorporating sustainable best practices into the entire project lifecycle, contributing to building a domestic circular renewables economy and reducing foreign dependence.
Environmental and technical studies
The project was evaluated for environmental impacts in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act and National Environmental Policy Act. The project will adhere to all requirements and mitigation measures outlined in the permits for the project.
Innovating and accelerating solar installation through robotics
AES’ Maximo, the only robot for the automation of the end-to-end installation of solar modules, will support installation at the Bellefield site. With a robotic arm to lift and precisely place solar panels, paired with construction analytics and AI-enabled technology, Maximo will accelerate the Bellefield project’s efficiency and timelines.
Learn more about Maximo and the future of solar installation
Partnering with communities for the future of energy
At AES, we understand that our success as a company is only as strong as our partnerships with the communities where we operate. That’s why we partner with communities, customers, state agencies, higher education, elected officials, and other key stakeholders to see how we can best work together to support sustainable social and economic development. AES is proud to be a longtime supporter of community organizations and partnerships in Kern County.
AES is a proud member and partner of:
Contact us
We want to hear from you! We appreciate your interest in AES’ Bellefield solar + storage project.
Phone number: 1-800-396-8481
Email: castakeholderrelations@aes.com