REC Solar, a leading independent power producer, and Ventura Energy, a renewable energy developer based on California’s central coast, have announced the completion of a 1.73 MW solar project at Farmers Irrigation Company’s Santa Paula site. The project includes two rooftop solar arrays installed on newly built reservoir covers. These reservoir covers play an important role in Farmers Irrigation Company’s broader modernization plan, which involves shifting its long-standing gravity-fed water distribution system to a more efficient and controlled pressurized system. Motive Energy served as the engineering, procurement, and construction partner for the entire installation.
This solar project represents a strong collaboration between all partners. REC Solar will own and operate the system under a 25-year power purchase agreement, while Ventura Energy led the development work. Their combined expertise directly supports Farmers Irrigation Company’s ongoing commitment to improve water delivery infrastructure for agricultural communities across Ventura County.
The system is expected to generate approximately $12 million in total energy value over its lifetime. This translates to $5 million in net savings that will help lower operating costs for the cooperative’s member farms and agricultural businesses. By reducing energy expenses, the benefits of the project will flow directly to the growers and local agricultural operations that depend on reliable and cost-effective water service.
Scott Therein, Director of Strategic Partnerships at REC Solar, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating that Farmers Irrigation Company has been a central part of Ventura County agriculture for generations. He noted that REC Solar is proud to support the cooperative’s efforts to integrate renewable energy into its upgraded operations, and that working collaboratively with Ventura Energy was key to developing a solution that brings long-term value and stability.
Farmers Irrigation Company, founded in 1879, has historically relied on gravity-fed canals and pipelines to serve its growers. Transitioning to a pressurized distribution system will significantly improve reliability, offer greater control of water flows, and increase operational flexibility. However, pressurized systems require far more energy than traditional gravity-fed systems. By incorporating solar generation into the modernization plan, the cooperative is able to maintain cost efficiency while preparing its water delivery network for decades ahead. This integrated approach will help make agriculture in Ventura County more water-efficient, energy-efficient, and economically stable.
General Manager Barney Caudill explained that the solar project brings greater confidence to the long-term stability of the cooperative’s operations. Having a dependable and cost-effective source of energy helps maintain predictable expenses and ensures that the cooperative can continue investing in the services that local farmers rely on.
The project also highlights the value of collaboration between local developers and long-term energy owner-operators. Ventura Energy CEO Clara Nagy McBane shared that the project reflects the kind of partnership their team strives for—one where thoughtful solar development supports essential agricultural infrastructure. She noted that combining the new solar installation with the cooperative’s pressurized system strengthens resilience and cost efficiency for agricultural businesses throughout the region.
Overall, the Santa Paula solar project demonstrates how strategic partnerships and clean energy investments can support modern agricultural infrastructure, reduce long-term operating costs, and help secure a more sustainable future for farming communities in Ventura County.
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