In an unusual merger of renewable energy and fossil fuels, solar energy is being tapped to power an existing oil refinery. The Rodeo, California, facility operated by Phillips 66 will soon include a 30.2 MW solar system owned and operated by electrical utility NextEra Energy.

Expected to become operational in early 2025, the project will be comprised of more than 70,000 solar panels and is projected to produce 60,000 MWh of electricity annually. The on-site solar resource will reduce the refinery’s grid power demand by 50% and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 33,000 metric tons per year.

The Rodeo refinery complex recently switched from processing crude oil to focus on the production of renewable fuels such as renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. The facility uses lower-carbon intensity feedstocks, including used cooking oil, fats, greases and vegetable oil and currently yields nearly 50,000 barrels of refined fuel per day.

“We are excited to collaborate with NextEra Energy Resources on a project that aligns with our mission of providing energy and improving lives,” said Zhanna Golodryga, executive vice president of emerging energy and sustainability for Phillips 66. “This solar facility not only underscores our commitment to advancing a lower-carbon future but also enhances our energy infrastructure.”