Bechtel completes Cutlass Solar 2 project in Texas using automation, robots and drones
The Cutlass Solar 2 project in Fort Bend, Texas, is complete and generating electricity at full capacity. Bechtel constructed the 218-MW project, which is owned and operated by Sabanci Climate Technologies.
“We’re delighted to get Cutlass Solar 2 to maximum capacity to provide more renewable power for Texans, support America’s energy transition, and help achieve the Lone Star State’s goal to become the nation’s largest producer of solar power,” said Scott Austin, Bechtel General Manager of Renewables & Clean Power. “Bechtel is proud to partner with Sabanci Climate Technologies in their pursuit to make clean, renewable energy more accessible to the people of Texas.”
“We partnered with Bechtel for our first solar venture because they are experts in delivering projects better and faster,” said Ismail Bilgin, President of Sabanci Climate Technologies. “Sending maximum power to Texas’ grid is a fantastic milestone in this successful project and reconfirms that we were right to choose Bechtel. We’re looking forward to continuing this success on our next project, Oriana, together.”
To meet the project’s ambitious 13-month schedule, Bechtel employed data-driven automation, survey robots, machine-controlled equipment, drones and a mindset that “every minute matters.” Bechtel’s digital execution hub used at Cutlass Solar 2 enabled 100% digital delivery through software integration. The hub gathers data directly from equipment in the field and feeds the data into an interactive map-based visualization. You can watch a video about Bechtel’s smart digital delivery at Cutlass projects here.
At peak construction, more than 300 people were employed on the site. Approximately 30% of professional staff and 15% of the project’s craft professionals were women, representing two-and-a-half-times the industry average.
Bechtel will soon begin constructing the 232-MW Oriana Solar facility for Sabanci Climate Technologies in Victoria County, Texas.