The planned 466 kW solar canopy system will offset 96% of the Central Landfill’s electricity usage and save the County $2.5 million over the next 20 years.
WOODLAND, Calif. – May 16, 2025 – Yolo County, in partnership with ForeFront Power, a leading developer and asset manager of commercial and industrial-scale solar energy and storage projects, held a groundbreaking ceremony to commemorate the start of construction on a 466 kilowatt-DC (kW DC) solar energy canopy system at the Yolo County Central Landfill in Woodland.
Slated for completion in late 2025, the solar canopy will generate over 750,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, enough to power approximately 130 homes each year. This clean energy production will offset 89% of the Central Landfill’s electrical consumption and is projected to save the County more than $2.5 million in electricity costs over the 20-year lifespan of the system.
Operated under Yolo County’s Integrated Waste Management Division, the Central Landfill is already a model for sustainability, with initiatives including an on-site methane capture system, a state-of-the-art recycling and composting facility, and the Big Blue Barn Thrift Store. The new solar canopy adds a renewable energy source to support these operations, increase efficiency, and further reduce carbon emissions.
“This project exemplifies Yolo County’s leadership in environmental stewardship and innovation,” said Yolo County Board of Supervisors Chair, Mary Vixie-Sandy. “Investing in renewable energy at the Central Landfill not only helps us reduce emissions and fight climate change but it also delivers long-term financial savings for our residents. It’s a win for our environment, our economy, and future generations.”
“This solar project is the latest step in our ongoing commitment to make the Central Landfill a hub for innovation in sustainable waste operations,” said Yolo County Integrated Waste Management Division Director, Marissa Juhler. “From composting and recycling to methane capture and now solar energy, we’re actively integrating clean technologies into every aspect of landfill operations to support our County’s broader climate goals.”
This project is a key component of Yolo County’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), which aims to achieve net negative carbon emissions by 2030. One CAAP strategy is to decarbonize County facilities through on-site renewable energy generation, which is key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The new solar system is expected to offset approximately 418 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually, which is equivalent to taking 88 gas-powered passenger vehicles off the road or avoiding the emissions from burning 422,000 pounds of coal each year.
“Yolo County is an inspiring example of how California counties can take diverse, actionable strides in sustainability, and we’re honored to help contribute to their climate progress through the development of this solar project,” said Ruben F. Fontes, CEO at ForeFront Power. “Together, we’re turning landfill space into a clean energy asset that will reduce the County’s grid reliance and carbon footprint while improving operational energy efficiency and cost effectiveness.”
The project is being developed at no upfront cost to the County through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with ForeFront Power. Under the agreement, ForeFront Power will develop, own, and maintain the Central Landfill solar energy system. Yolo County will purchase the electricity at a fixed, lower rate than the utility for 20 years, providing long-term budget certainty and shielding the County from utility rate increases.
About Yolo County
Located in the heart of Northern California, Yolo County is home to more than 220,000 residents and encompasses the cities of Davis, West Sacramento, Winters, and Woodland. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, environmental leadership, and innovative public services, Yolo County is committed to sustainability, fiscal responsibility, and community well-being. The County provides a wide range of services—from public health and safety to infrastructure and environmental stewardship—and continues to lead regional efforts in renewable energy, climate resilience, and equitable growth.
About ForeFront Power
ForeFront Power is a leading developer of community solar and commercial- and industrial-scale (C&I) solar energy and battery storage projects in the U.S. and Mexico, also offering vehicle fleet electrification services. Over 15 years of working together, the ForeFront Power team has developed more than 1,900 behind-the-meter and community solar projects, totaling more than 1.6 gigawatt-DC of renewable electricity. ForeFront Power serves business, government, education, healthcare and community solar customers with a broad array of development, asset management and advisory services from its San Francisco headquarters and via teams based in New York, Mexico City, and across the U.S.
This announcement was featured across local media including The Daily Democrat and The Davis Enterprise.
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