Author: sHq_LoGiNz

One of the largest solar-plus-storage installations in the U.S.,
the landmark Eland project will generate 7% of Los Angeles’s electricity
and deliver homegrown, reliable power to more than 266,000 homes annually

MOJAVE, Calif. and SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Arevon Energy, Inc., a leading American energy developer, owner, and operator, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the company’s Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project, which is now fully operational. Arevon’s two-phase Eland project, sited near Mojave in Kern County, is one of the nation’s largest solar-plus-storage facilities, with total capital costs of more than $2 billion. Combined, the Eland 1 & 2 projects will be able to power more than 266,000 homes annually, and overall, can provide 7% of the total electricity requirements for the city of Los Angeles.

Arevon developed and will own and operate the Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project, which has a total nameplate capacity of 758 megawatts (MWdc) of solar paired with 300 MW/1,200 megawatt hours of energy storage. Eland 1 reached commercial operation at the end of 2024, and Eland 2 recently commenced full operation — together, the two phases comprise 1.36 million solar panels and 172 lithium iron phosphate batteries (LFP). The batteries, which were manufactured locally in Lathrop, California, efficiently and quickly discharge power during times of peak demand, strengthening California’s energy security, especially in the face of extreme heat, brownouts, and blackouts. LFP battery technology also offers enhanced safety compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. In commercial use since 2019, LFP batteries have had no reported fire incidents, making them the reliable and secure choice for utility-scale storage. Cumulatively, Eland 1 & 2 generated approximately 1,000 jobs to construct the facility, and the project is expected to disburse more than $36 million in local government payments throughout its lifetime, which can support schools, public services, and necessary infrastructure enhancements.

Public officials, utility representatives, community leaders, and local stakeholders gathered to mark the project’s operations at an on-site ribbon-cutting ceremony. Sharing remarks at the event were Mayor Karen Bass, City of Los Angeles; Trelynd Bradley, Deputy Director for Innovation and Emerging Technologies at the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz); Janisse Quiñones, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Engineer at Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP); Daniel E. Garcia, Executive Director at Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA); Scott Mellon, General Manager at Glendale Water and Power (GWP); Chris Hannan, President at the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California; Lorelei Oviatt, AICP, Director at Kern County Planning and Natural Resources, and Justin Johnson, Chief Operating Officer at Arevon. Kevin Smith, Chief Executive Officer at Arevon, served as the event’s master of ceremonies.

California is on track to achieve 100% clean energy by 2035, with 57% of the state’s electricity already coming from renewable resources. Arevon’s Eland project further advances California’s renewable energy goals, particularly as the state works to phase out other technologies. 

“We are building a greener Los Angeles. The Eland Solar-plus-Storage Project alone will generate enough power to serve more than 266,000 homes in Los Angeles and push the city’s clean energy share above 60 percent, a major milestone in L.A.’s transition to being powered by 100% clean energy by 2035,” Mayor Bass said. “This is L.A.’s clean energy future — I want to thank LADWP, Arevon, and all of the partners who made this occasion possible.”

“Bringing Eland Solar-plus-Storage online is a defining achievement for Arevon. Not only is Eland the largest project in our portfolio, but it also delivers reliable and affordable energy at scale and reflects our team’s leadership in advancing California’s renewables-forward future,” Smith said. “Strong collaboration among the project’s landowners and community members as well as our power offtake and financing partners was essential in getting us to this moment. We are pleased to deliver homegrown, stable, and secure power to Los Angelenos and contribute to the state’s renewable energy goals — all the while supporting local communities and investing in long-term sustainability.”

The energy generated and stored by Eland is under long-term agreements with SCPPA, who delivers it to its members, LADWP and GWP.

“This celebration marks a critical step toward LADWP’s accelerated goal of 100% clean energy by 2035,” Quiñones said. “The Eland project represents what we need to achieve this objective — scale, energy storage, reliability, and innovation — while demonstrating what is possible when public and private sectors partner to benefit our city and the environment.”

“Eland is a game-changer for Glendale. It’s not just about clean energy — it’s about building a smarter, more resilient power grid that meets the moment. With cutting-edge solar and storage in one of the biggest projects of its kind, we’re locking in affordable, 100% carbon-free energy for our community and setting the pace for what a modern utility should look like,” Mellon said.

“The Eland project exemplifies what’s possible when public power agencies and innovative private partners work together to deliver transformative energy solutions. This milestone is not just about megawatts, it’s about building a more sustainable, reliable future for the communities and members we serve,” Garcia said.

To date — and this is just the beginning — Arevon has contributed to several community-centered initiatives in the Eland Solar-plus-Storage project area. As the long-term owner and operator of the project, Arevon is committed to continuing its support for local programs throughout the life of the project. In partnership with the Safe Haven Kid’s League of California City, Arevon has helped provide food security, school supplies, infant care items, and workforce reentry programs. The company also supports the I Love California City Economic Development Group, funding infrastructure upgrades and clean-up events for Balsitis Park to promote outdoor activities and community well-being.

Arevon is a nationwide renewable energy developer and a leader in California with more than 3.7 gigawatts in operation, representing more than $5 billion in capital investments. The company recently issued other announcements celebrating achievements at several of its California projects, including the start of operations at its Peregrine Energy Storage Project, its Eland 1 Solar-plus-Storage Project, its Vikings Solar-plus-Storage Project, and its Condor Energy Storage Project. Arevon also announced construction proceedings at its Nighthawk Energy Storage Project and executed offtake agreements for its Cormorant Energy Storage Project and its Avocet Energy Storage Project. Condor Energy Storage in Grand Terrace received the North America Storage Deal of the Year Award, and Vikings Solar-plus-Storage in Imperial County was the recipient of IJGlobal’s Renewables Deal of the Year – Energy Storage Award.

About Arevon Energy, Inc.
Arevon is a U.S. energy leader committed to powering America with affordable, reliable, and secure homegrown energy. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, and with a regional office in New York City, the company’s experienced and dedicated staff develops, finances, builds, owns, and operates renewable energy projects nationwide. With a strong track record in utility-scale solar and energy storage, Arevon is a trusted partner to utilities and businesses seeking cost-effective, sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing American manufacturing and domestic energy production, the company invests in U.S. jobs, strengthens local economies, and advances the country’s energy independence.

Arevon owns and operates more than 5.3 gigawatts (GW) of solar and energy storage projects across 17 states, representing more than $10 billion in capital investment, and is constructing approximately 1 GW of new capacity. The company also partnered with local utilities to develop and build 480 megawatts of solar energy, ensuring each project was successfully integrated into their communities. Within the last two years, Arevon has completed more than $3.8 billion in project financings and closed on a $600 million corporate revolver to fund continued company growth. With a 9 GW development portfolio and continued investment in new projects, Arevon is solidifying its role as a leader in powering an American energy future. For more information, visit arevonenergy.com.

About Southern California Public Power Authority
Southern California Public Power Authority (SCPPA) is a Joint Powers Authority, created in 1980, for the purpose of providing joint planning, financing, construction, and operation of transmission and generation projects. Comprised of eleven municipal utilities and one irrigation district, SCPPA’s Members serve more than 5 million Californians (2 million customers) across a service area of 9,000 square miles. SCPPA’s Members supply 16% of California’s power.

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SOURCE Arevon

AUSTIN, Texas, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cell Phones for Soldiers (CPFS), a national nonprofit dedicated to providing cost-free communication services and connectivity support to veterans and active-duty military members, is proud to announce the signing of a lease for its new national headquarters in Austin, Texas.

This pivotal move marks a bold step forward in the organization’s mission to bridge the digital divide for America’s Bravest. The new facility not only symbolizes growth but represents the next level of operational excellence, powered by cutting-edge automation technologies and deepened mission-driven strategic partnerships.

Investing in Robotics and Technology to Empower the Mission

At the core of this transition is a major investment in automation and advanced technology, which will allow CPFS to internalize its phone donation processing operations. By bringing all logistics in-house and eliminating reliance on third-party logistics (3PL) providers, CPFS is significantly reducing overhead, increasing transparency, and unlocking more funds to directly serve veterans.

A customizable suite of software and robotics solutions—enhanced by proprietary AI and machine learning—provides unmatched efficiency and quality assurance. This transformative technology enables CPFS to independently process, recycle, and repurpose donated devices while giving full inventory control and end-to-end transparency to the nonprofit and its donors.

“Internalizing our operations supported by advanced technology allows us to make informed decisions that better serve our mission,” said Rob Bergquist, Co-Founder of Cell Phones for Soldiers. “Every dollar we maximize with better technology and streamlined operations is a dollar that goes directly toward changing a veteran’s life.”

Reaching New Milestones with Purpose-Driven Partners

CPFS’s impact is amplified through collaborations with industry-leading, values-aligned partners including Apex Wireless, Patriot Mobile, Sequoia Wireless, and OnComms. These partnerships ensure national coverage, enabling the organization to stay agile, scalable, and responsive to the unique and evolving connectivity needs of veterans nationwide.

Currently, CPFS has 4,000 mobile lines available for veterans, with a goal to connect at least 30,000 veterans in the next three years. The nonprofit will take a major step toward that goal on August 8–9, 2025, when it teams up with strategic partner, Seqouia Wireless to provide free phones and service to 600 homeless veterans in San Diego, California.

“Investing in strategic, mission-aligned partners scales our impact beyond just one device or one call—we’re building a national network of care,” said CPFS Executive Director, Rob Bergquist. “From mental health to housing to employment, we are connecting veterans to life-saving resources.”

The Bridge That Saves Lives

In today’s hyper-connected world, access to communication is more than a convenience—it’s a lifeline. CPFS is determined to make sure veterans never feel alone in times of crisis. Since 9/11, more than 150,000 veterans have died by suicide, emphasizing the urgent need for access to mental health support.

As a cornerstone of its mission, CPFS ensures that every veteran we serve has access to crisis lines, including the 1-800 Suicide Hotline, and comprehensive connectivity solutions spanning healthcare, employment, housing support, and vital family connections.

“Cell Phones for Soldiers is the bridge—connecting veterans to the resources that save lives,” added Rob Bergquist. “We aren’t just providing cell phones—we are providing hope, support, and the chance to make a different decision in their darkest hour.”

Two Decades of Impact—and Just Getting Started

Since its founding in 2004, Cell Phones for Soldiers has grown into a national force for good, always evolving to meet the challenges faced by our veteran community. With this latest move to Austin and new investments in automation, strategic partnerships, and donor transparency, CPFS is setting the foundation for the next 20 years of impact.

To follow our journey, support our mission, or learn how to get involved, please visit www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com and follow us on social media.

Media Contact:

Rob Bergquist

Executive Director

rob@cellphonesforsoldiers.com 

(800) 426-1031

Cell Phones for Soldiers – Connecting America’s Bravest for Over 20 Years

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SOURCE CELL PHONES FOR SOLDIERS

BEIJING, Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — British online content creator Jack Forsdike witnessed achievements of Chinese dairy giant Mengniu in combating desertification during his recent visit to the Ulan Buh Desert in north China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. 

To fight desertification, Mengniu has transformed over 200 square kilometers of desert into green pasture in recent years, planting more than 97 million trees. The project demonstrates how Chinese enterprises make ESG efforts to better the environment around them.

In July, Jack toured the green pasture, which now provides forage grasses for cows at Mengniu’s world-leading organic raw milk production base.

Mengniu’s “grass to pasture to milk” organic system has been recognized by the UN Global Compact, the world’s largest corporate social responsibility initiative, as a world-class corporate carbon-neutrality roadmap.

Committed to green development, the dairy giant vows to peak carbon emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 while continuing to deliver premium dairy products to the world.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/346988.html

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SOURCE Xinhua Silk Road

• Honda and the Honda USA Foundation contribute over $16.5 million during annual programmatic funding cycle
• This year’s funding supports 223 programs across five key corporate social responsibility pillars: Education, Environment, Mobility, Traffic Safety, and Community
• Contributions reinforce Honda’s long-term commitment to empower local communities through initiatives that align with the company’s vision to help people fulfill their life’s potential

TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Honda and the Honda USA Foundation today announced more than $16.5 million in charitable giving to 223 individual programs led by nonprofit organizations and schools across the country that align with Honda core values and the company’s deep commitment to driving meaningful change. The contributions are part of the annual funding cycle for charitable giving, focusing on programmatic support for national and local organizations that serve communities where Honda associates live and work, and are expected to positively impact more than 35 million individuals.

Honda corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity is guided by five strategic pillars: Education, Environment, Mobility, Traffic Safety, and Community, each representing a key area where Honda aims to drive meaningful societal change.

“Honda charitable giving efforts are rooted in powering dreams and improving lives in the communities where we live and work,” said Bobbie Trittschuh, charitable giving manager for Honda and executive director for the Honda USA Foundation. “Through these contributions, we’re proud to support programming creating long-term, sustainable impact in key areas that align with Honda core values.”

Honda and the Honda USA Foundation’s support for these initiatives expands access to education, reduces environmental impact, enhances mobility for all, advances traffic safety, and uplifts local communities. Several notable programs were funded this year, including those featured below.

Education

To inspire the next generation of leaders and cultivate a future-ready workforce, Honda supports programs that build skills in design, engineering, production, and information technology. This funding is estimated to provide millions of hours of education and training to hundreds of thousands of individuals in local communities. Through these partnerships, Honda is helping young people discover pathways to success.

• TechPoint Youth brings hands-on STEM activities to girls, underrepresented communities, and students from low-income backgrounds. Funding from Honda will allow TechPoint to serve schools in counties near the Honda Indiana Auto Plant and will be used to create new robotics teams, outreach, and recruitment.
• West Central Ohio Career Network supports initiatives that connect students and schools to industry experts, encouraging students to explore the world of manufacturing. Funds received will be used to provide resources that help inspire the next generation through job shadowing and internships.
• The Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB), a longstanding Honda partner, provides education, rehabilitation, and support services for individuals who are Deaf, Blind, DeafBlind, or multi-disabled. Honda support will allow AIDB to enhance its modern manufacturing program, empowering its students to pursue careers in industry and entrepreneurship, and educate tens of thousands of students in high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and electric vehicle technology.

Environment

Toward its ambitious goals of decarbonization, clean energy, and resource circulation to reduce the environmental impact of its products and business operations, Honda supports habitat preservation, clean energy workforce development, and community-based sustainability efforts. Honda support helps reduce and prevent hundreds of thousands of metric tons of CO₂ emissions, generate millions of kilowatt hours of clean energy, and conserve vital resources such as water and compostable materials, improving the quality of life for local communities across the country.

• The Nature Conservancy is a global leader in environmental conservation. With a relationship that spans nearly thirty years, the current funding from Honda will support critical habitat preservation and resilience projects to protect the planet.
• GRID Alternatives Greater Los Angeles is a leading voice in low-income solar policy and the nation’s largest nonprofit solar installer. Funding from Honda will support a 13-week Installation Basics Training program, which engages young people in green career opportunities within the solar industry.

Mobility

Honda believes that mobility should be accessible to all, and the Honda USA Foundation supports programs that empower all people to fulfill their life’s potential, remove barriers, and expand access and opportunities to individuals with disabilities. This year’s awardees will positively impact tens of thousands of individuals annually through more than thousands of mobility modifications, therapeutic and adaptive services, and comprehensive care support services. These programs aim to enhance the joy and freedom of mobility, regardless of physical or developmental challenges.

• Camp Twin Lakes in Georgia provides experiences for children with serious illnesses and disabilities. Through the Honda USA Foundation’s support of fully adaptive and medically supportive camp activities, children gain essential skills to navigate daily challenges more independently, while also fostering wellness, belonging, self-acceptance, and confidence.
• Riverwood Therapeutic Riding Center in North Carolina provides equine-assisted therapy. The Honda USA Foundation grant will support activities that help improve balance, coordination, motor development, self-confidence and executive function development for individuals with developmental disabilities and mental health diagnoses.

Traffic Safety

Building on its global “Safety for Everyone” philosophy and ambitious vision of zero traffic collision fatalities involving Honda and Acura vehicles, Honda supports programs that promote safe driving, biking, and pedestrian practices. Programs funded by Honda are expected to deliver tens of millions of hours of safety education, distribute hundreds of thousands of safety products, and reach millions more through public awareness campaigns.

• Safe Kids Worldwide is a global nonprofit dedicated to preventing childhood injuries through research, education, and advocacy. Funding from Honda will support key programming in teen driver, pedestrian and bicycle safety, equipping thousands of individuals with life-saving knowledge and safety devices.
• The Texas A&M Foundation Teens in the Driver Seat® program is a peer-to-peer traffic safety initiative that empowers young people and promotes safe driving habits, aiming to reduce teen crashes and improve roadway safety. Honda support will help educate thousands of young drivers.

Community

Honda believes in empowering communities across America and supports programs that address critical needs. These programs are expected to support social services, disaster preparedness and response, and food security, and provide proactive and strategic opportunities for Honda associates to engage in local communities.

• United Way supports health advancements and opportunities for youth, as well as financial stability programs. Funds from Honda will help local chapters across five states expand access to this programming.
• Impact Alamance partners with local non-profit organizations in Alamance County, North Carolina, to fund equipment needed to provide essential services. This contribution will significantly enhance the support extended to local communities.
• Mid-Ohio Foodbank annually serves more than half a million hungry neighbors across 20 Ohio counties. Funding from Honda will strengthen Mid-Ohio Food Collective’s (MOFC) food acquisition and distribution strategy, enabling the organization to provide more fresh food and nonperishable options to local communities. Currently, MOFC provides approximately 80 million pounds of food and groceries to families in need.

The full list of 2025 funded programs is available here. The next Honda and Honda USA Foundation annual funding cycle will open on September 1, 2025, for eligible nonprofit organizations and schools to request programmatic funding support for 2026. To learn more, visit https://csr.honda.com/community/honda-giving/.

About Honda Corporate Social Responsibility and the Honda USA Foundation
For more than 65 years in the U.S., Honda has been committed to making positive contributions to the communities where its associates live and work. The company’s mission is to create products and services that help people fulfill their life’s potential, while conducting business in a sustainable manner and fostering an inclusive workplace. Advancing its corporate social responsibility, Honda and the Honda USA Foundation support this direction through giving focused on education, the environment, mobility, traffic safety, and community.

Learn more at http://csr.honda.com/.

 

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SOURCE Honda