Partners of the Pleasant Valley Solar 2 project in Idaho have joined together to provide $375,000 to support students at the College of Western Idaho and Boise State University through two workforce development grant programs. Each school will receive $187,500 to expand opportunities for Idaho students preparing for careers that strengthen the state’s economy and energy future.
Contractors rPlus Energies, Sundt Renewables and BHI, insurance agent Alan Stearns; and solar panel supplier Thornova Solar have contributed to the ‘Local First’ and ‘Energy First’ exhibition programs.
The Local First – Pleasant Valley Solar 2 Scholarship, awarded in partnership with College of Western Idaho, supports students pursuing a certificate or associate degree with an emphasis on retaining skilled talent in Idaho communities.
“This grant directly strengthens Idaho’s workforce by helping more students gain the skills and education needed for their careers,” said CWI President Gordon Jones. “The $187,500 commitment will open doors for CWI students, fuel business growth and support innovation in our state.”
The Energy First – Pleasant Valley Solar 2 Scholarship, awarded in partnership with Boise State University, supports students pursuing degrees in energy-related fields such as engineering or construction management.
“We are incredibly grateful for Pleasant Valley Solar 2 Partners’ continued generosity and leadership with this grant,” said Argia Beristain, CEO of the Boise State University Foundation. “Energy-related careers are of great interest to our students and of great importance to our state. This grant opens the doors to our students while helping develop Idaho’s workforce and economy.”
Both grants continue the Local First and Energy First programs established during the Pleasant Valley Solar 1 project, which raised $123,000 for College of Western Idaho and Boise State University students in 2024.
Since launching in 2022, the Local First and Energy First grant series, implemented by rPlus Energies in each community where they begin construction, has contributed more than $1 million to support local students and strengthen host communities.
Pleasant Valley Solar 2 is a 125 MW solar facility under construction in Ada County, Idaho. The project will create approximately 200 construction jobs and is expected to be operational in summer 2026.
News item from rPlus
