Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Speedway Project is a utility-scale solar, wind, and battery storage project aiming to harness renewable energy in Sherman County. The project spans roughly 20,000 acres and is expected to generate nearly 1400 MW of energy. The project is being developed by Brookfield Renewable N.A., a global leader in clean energy investments.

  • The project is located near the Oregon Raceway Park in Sherman County.

  • Photovoltaic (PV) solar modules — which are made from nonhazardous glass and silicone —convert light from the sun into electricity. That electricity powers everything from homes and grocery stores to mills, factories, schools, and hospitals.

  • Battery energy storage systems (BESS) work by storing electricity generated by a renewable energy resource or on the grid for later delivery when demands are high or energy generation supply has dropped. Modern BESS technologies are safe and provide great benefit to the grid and ratepayers by helping utility scale renewable energy projects to deliver reliable energy when it is most needed.

  • Wind energy works by converting the natural movement of air into electricity. Wind turbines capture the energy of the wind with large blades that spin a rotor. This rotor turns a generator, which produces renewable electricity.

  • With wide open spaces and lots of sunshine, this region offers many benefits and is perfect for renewable energy projects. More specifically, this project location is adjacent to a transmission line, which is critical for connecting renewable energy to the power grid and servicers.

    In addition, the project will bring substantial new jobs and income to the county, strengthening the local economy.

  • Yes, we are excited to be working throughout the Pacific Northwest. Brookfield currently owns and operates the Shepherd’s Flat Wind Farm in Arlington, Oregon. In addition to the Speedway Project, Brookfield is developing two other renewable projects in Oregon and a solar facility in Washington state. Brookfield Renewable has deep experience in the industry, with 8+GW of operating renewable energy facilities in the US and a deep development pipeline.

  • Electricity produced by the project will enter the grid through a nearby Bonneville Power Administration substation and be used throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.

  • Construction will directly support an estimated 1,000+ jobs annually for three years, including installation labor, specialized operators, engineers, inspectors, construction management, and administrative services. About 400 workers are expected to come from within the region, with another 600 coming from outside the area. 

    Local construction activity will also support an estimated 200+ indirect jobs and 100 induced jobs annually, bringing the total construction employment impact to more than 1,400 jobs each year. Once operational, the project will support 21 full-time employees living in the region.

  • Brookfield’s significant investment in this community will enhance the county’s financial resiliency and provide reliable economic benefits to local families for decades to come. Tax revenue from this project will support shared priorities like schools, roads, and law enforcement. In addition, the Speedway Project will generate more than $8 million in direct economic output to Sherman County during construction and operation.

  • The project represents an investment of $1+ billion in Sherman County. During construction, it is expected to generate $125 million annually in labor income from direct employment, plus an additional $20 million annually from indirect and induced jobs. These impacts will provide meaningful economic activity across the region while supporting local businesses and services.

  • The land where this project will be developed is owned by local private landowners. This project represents an opportunity for the next generation of Sherman County families to uphold the region’s legacy of natural resource stewardship without sacrificing its proud agricultural heritage.

  • We aim to be good neighbors in every community that we operate in, and we have the track record to show it, including in Oregon. We began community engagement for this project well before our Notice of Intent was filed — and will continue engaging with the Sherman County community, including meeting with local leaders, tribal groups, holding public meetings, and sharing project information online.

    If you have a question about the project, please reach out to the team any time:

    Vince Esposito

    Sr. Manager, Asset Development

    Vincent.Esposito@brookfieldrenewable.com

    646-992-9316

  • Yes. To ensure the long-term resiliency of our electric grid, Oregon has set bold goals around new renewable energy projects. The Speedway project will help reach those goals. Projects like this also help to diversify the local economy.

  • Currently, the land is primarily used to grow dryland wheat. The project’s design ensures landowners can continue their agricultural operations to the extent safe and practicable.

  • The Speedway project is not located near any known cultural sites. We will continue to consult with local stakeholders, including tribes and historical societies, to ensure this does not change. Brookfield’s environmental and culture consultants are currently conducting field surveys across the site to better understand the existing conditions and the interface with the proposed project, and will be made publicly available when possible.

  • The project is not located within the state big game winter or summer range habitat. The project will conform with the applicable setbacks to avoid sensitive areas like wetlands and waterbodies.

  • Studies examining the property values of residential homes located near or with solar views have not found that home values are negatively affected by solar facilities. We do not expect a decrease in property values for homes in proximity to the Speedway project.

    Studies:

  • Elk, deer, birds, and other game will still be able to migrate through the property via established wildlife corridors. The project will not affect any existing hunting or other recreational opportunities in the broader area.

  • Once operational, solar facilities are virtually silent. Wind turbines generate a low level of sound during operation, but onshore wind projects are carefully designed to minimize noise impacts on surrounding areas. Battery energy storage systems also produce minimal noise, typically limited to fans, HVAC systems, and transformers comparable to the sound levels of standard commercial buildings.

  • Once the project is complete, traffic in and out of the facility will be very minimal. And while this project will entail construction traffic, we will work with the county and local transportation experts to ensure that the flow of traffic is efficient and maintained.

  • Speedway is designed to balance energy output with minimal visual and environmental disruption. The project layout integrates into the existing landscape and avoids overbuilding, preserving key wildlife corridors and agricultural uses, while prioritizing strategic siting to reduce visual impact wherever possible.

    We are actively engaging with the Warm Springs Tribe, environmental experts, and community members to identify and address remaining cultural or recreational concerns through field studies.

  • Solar and battery storage projects are typically active for 25-35 years, at which point the land is returned to its original use. Wind turbines have a similar lifespan, though they can undergo a re-power process, meaning components like blades and generators are upgraded to extend performance and improve efficiency.

  • Homes are always the first priority to protect in the event of a wildfire. Emergency response plans are in place to address wildfire risks and ensure the safety of the project and surrounding areas, and we will be working with emergency management in the area on an ongoing basis. The project will incorporate designated fire breaks, access routes for emergency vehicles, and physical barriers to help contain any potential fire. We’re also coordinating directly with local fire departments and first responders to ensure their concerns are reflected in the final project design and response protocols.

  • Brookfield is a well-funded company with a proven track record of developing and operating successful energy projects throughout the country, including here in Oregon. To specifically answer the question, a bond is required for any energy facility development and would site decommissioning.

  • OBBBA sets new deadlines and requirements for clean energy projects to qualify for federal tax credits. To remain eligible, the Speedway project must begin construction by July 2026 or be placed in service by the end of 2027. It also encourages the use of U.S.-made materials and limits the use of equipment from certain foreign suppliers, such as China. Brookfield is working to follow all new federal guidance.

  • We welcome your input, questions, and concerns any time. We will ensure that the community is aware of any opportunity to engage with the project team throughout the process — and you should feel free to reach out to us any time: 

    Vince Esposito

    Sr. Manager, Asset Development

    Vincent.Esposito@brookfieldrenewable.com

    646-992-9316