Georgia Power and the US Department of the Navy (DON) have reached an agreement on the development of a new 30MW AC solar generation facility at Naval Submarine Base (SUBASE) Kings Bay in St Marys.

As part of the agreement, a real estate outgrant has been executed with the DON to use 258 acres of land at SUBASE Kings Bay for the solar project.

SUBASE Kings Bay commanding officer captain James Jenks said: "We are excited to partner with Georgia Power to develop a large cost-effective renewable energy project that will enhance the navy’s energy security and operational capability.

"This project is important in meeting the Secretary of the Navy’s energy goals."

"We are excited to partner with Georgia Power to develop a large cost-effective renewable energy project that will enhance the navy’s energy security and operational capability."

The project, which is expected to increase DON’s energy security, involves development of ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to deliver energy to the state’s electric grid.

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Georgia Power Renewable Development vice-president Norrie McKenzie said: "Our innovative solar partnerships with the state’s military bases, including SUBASE Kings Bay, are growing solar in Georgia, strengthening Georgia military bases and stimulating investment in Georgia communities.

"Our latest project with the DON will add even more cost-effective solar energy to our state and further execute on our strategy of identifying opportunities for renewable growth to benefit our customers and partners."

The company expects to break ground on the project by September and bring the facility online by the end of 2016.

The SUBASE Kings Bay solar project is estimated to represent a $75m investment at the installation.