Avantus (formerly 8minute) and Toyota Tsusho America have announced the beginning of construction of the 159-MW_DC/125-MW_AC Norton Solar Project in Runnels County, Texas. Issuance of a Notice to Proceed (NTP) follows Avantus’ sale of the Norton project in November 2023 to TAI, a 100% subsidiary of Toyota Tsusho Corporation of Japan, one of the Toyota Group Companies. TAI has also closed on a construction and term financing agreement with global financial group Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group.

The continued collaboration between Avantus and TAI underscores the value that Avantus and its portfolio can bring to leading, multinational companies looking to advance clean energy solutions and their sustainability goals. A long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) has also been secured with a corporate customer for the project.

Avantus will oversee construction of Norton, which is expected to begin operations in late 2025. RES will provide the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for the project.

“Texas is energy country, and that includes massive opportunities in solar. The Norton Solar Project represents the best of what we do at Avantus — develop high-quality clean energy projects that are good for our customers, for the local economy, and for the planet,” said Avantus Chief Financial Officer Patrick Goff. “This project was six years in the making, and I am proud of our team’s persistence in getting Norton shovel-ready and for securing the project’s successful sale to Toyota Tsusho America, Inc. to help meet their sustainability goals.”

Norton is expected to create 250 jobs at peak construction and will provide direct economic benefits to Runnels County and the local community throughout its operating life.

News item from Avantus