Project Nexus: California’s First Solar Over Canals Pilot Powers Up

Project Nexus, California’s groundbreaking solar over canals pilot project, has reached a major milestone. Construction at the wide-span location is now complete, and the solar array has officially begun generating power. This achievement marks an exciting step forward for renewable energy innovation in the state, combining clean electricity production with water conservation.

A First-of-Its-Kind Collaboration

Project Nexus is the result of a unique partnership between the Turlock Irrigation District (TID), the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), UC Merced, and Solar AquaGrid. Together, these organizations are testing how solar canopies over canals can simultaneously generate renewable power while reducing water evaporation — a critical need in drought-prone regions like California.

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From Construction to Commissioning

Work on the 115-foot-wide canal site began in February with the installation of concrete footings. By the end of August, construction was complete and the system was energized. The wide-span section joins the narrow-span site, which was finished earlier in March.

Combined, these two sites deliver a total generation capacity of 1.6 MW, all of which is now fully integrated into TID’s generation portfolio. This clean energy will support local demand while also serving as a pilot for larger-scale deployment in the future.

A Model for Water and Energy Sustainability

The innovation behind Project Nexus goes beyond power generation. By installing solar panels over canals, the project:

• Reduces water evaporation, conserving vital resources.

• Generates renewable energy directly within existing infrastructure.

• Minimizes land use, making solar deployment more sustainable.

If proven successful, this model could be replicated across California and beyond, addressing both water scarcity and energy transition challenges in one integrated solution.

Solar&Solar’s Perspective

At Solar&Solar, we see Project Nexus as a symbol of the creative thinking that’s shaping the future of renewable energy. By combining solar power with water conservation, it demonstrates how infrastructure can be reimagined to deliver multiple sustainability benefits at once.

With its innovative design and strong partnerships, Project Nexus could inspire similar solar-over-canal initiatives worldwide, paving the way toward smarter, greener, and more resource-efficient energy systems.