SOLAR POWER IN VIRGINIA
Cavalier Solar Project
AES’ Cavalier solar project, which is currently under construction, incorporates the most advanced solar energy technologies to support the Commonwealth’s goal to transition its electric grid to 100% clean energy by 2050. AES developed and will own and operate the Cavalier Solar facility when construction is completed in late 2024.
240 MW Planned capacity
Enough clean energy to power 40k homes
Located in Isle of Wight and Surry counties, Smithfield, Virginia
Our clean energy commitment
AES’ Cavalier Solar Project is a facility under construction in Virginia. We are committed to responsible clean energy development that creates long-term value and positive impact for both the environment and local communities.
Economic and environmental benefits
Clean energy plays an increasingly vital role in Virginia’s economy. AES has a proven track record developing successful clean energy projects in the Commonwealth that provide affordable and reliable clean energy while creating significant economic opportunities and benefits for local landowners and communities. We do this while preserving the rural nature of the areas where our projects are located.
787 local jobs
construction jobs and approximately 10 full-time equivalent jobs during the facility’s operational life
$1 million
in annual economic output in Surry and Isle of Wight Counties
$2 million
in cumulative county tax revenue in Isle of Wight over operational lifetime
Project details
The Cavalier Project serves as a model for future projects across Virginia, demonstrating how such projects can integrate seamlessly into the local economy while providing affordable clean energy. In addition to powering homes and businesses, the Cavalier project will also help strengthen the energy grid and ensure a sustainable, reliable energy supply during peak demand periods.
- 219,000 MWh of carbon-free electricity every year
- 1,000-acre site, developed entirely on privately-owned land
- 94,700 metric tons of CO2 emissions equivalent expected to be offset annually
- 35-year project life span
Recent Virginia solar project
AES’ recently completed Skipjack Solar Center in nearby Charles City County, Virginia is a testament to the importance of strong local partnerships in successful clean energy development.
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
Expected project timeline
Now – 2027
Project Preparation
Development, Siting, Permitting and Construction
2027
Operational
Operations
2027 - 2030+
Operational
Operations
Project updates
Sustainability Resources
Community engagement
AES is headquartered in Virginia and is committed to being a good neighbor to the communities of Isle of Wight and Surry Counties and to the Commonwealth. We work diligently to maximize the positive economic and social impacts our clean energy projects have on local communities.
Supporting a strong community
AES is dedicated to supporting local programs and initiatives to help build a stronger, more connected community:
- Sponsored the Clean Energy Challenges, allowing Smithfield High School students to participate and make it to the national competition
- Supported the Economic Development Agency to provide grants to small businesses
- Supported Crater Regional Workforce Development Donated to First Baptist Church in Spring Grove Sponsored meals for seniors from Virginia Diner
- Sponsored Surry County and Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce programs
Meet your AES team
Greg Creswell
Jenn D’Augustine
Tamara Slade
Contact us
We appreciate your interest in AES’ Cavalier Solar Project. Please contact us using the information below.