Vesper Energy hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 10, 2025, to celebrate the commercial operation of its flagship energy project, Hornet Solar, which is now fully operational. The event marks a major milestone not only for Vesper Energy, but also for Texas as a national leader in solar energy production.
Hornet Solar includes over 1.36 million modules and spans more than six square miles in Swisher County, Texas, making it one of the largest solar installations in the country. The project will contribute more than $100 million in new tax revenue to Swisher County and deliver 600 MWac of energy.
"Hornet Solar is a testament to how large-scale energy projects can deliver reliable, domestic power to American homes and businesses," said Juan Suarez, Co-Chief Executive Officer at Vesper Energy. "This project isn't just about solar panels—it's about making energy more affordable while strengthening our nation's energy security. With Hornet Solar fully operational, we're helping power a community with domestically generated electricity, ensuring businesses & communities have the energy they need to grow and thrive."
The event marked this milestone toward energy independence with guided tours of the project, speeches by Vesper executives, and networking. Attendees included:
- Michael Clawson, Swisher County Judge
- Elsa Carrasco, Swisher County Justice of the Peace
- Mike Sims, Swisher County Commissioner (Precinct 2)
- Mark Stover, Executive Director of Texas Solar and Storage Association
- Representatives from buyers of power products (offtakers)
- Vesper employees
- Landowners
- Community members
Vesper Energy began construction on Hornet Solar in the Fall of 2023 and announced that it secured $590 million in financing to further advance the project in January 2024. Since its inception, Hornet Solar has achieved several major milestones, including the installation of its one-millionth solar panel in December 2024 and the installation of its final module in January 2025.
"The scale of Hornet Solar speaks for itself—1.36 million panels, over six square miles, and 600 MW of capacity. But the real impact is what this project delivers to Swisher County: more than $100 million in new tax revenue and meaningful investments in schools, infrastructure, and healthcare," said Zach Wald, Vice President, EPC.
Hornet Solar is generating significant economic benefits for Swisher County and the surrounding region. The project created over 300 jobs during construction and will contribute new tax revenue to essential public services, including $61 million for the Tulia Independent School District, $25 million for the County, and $12 million for the Swisher Memorial Hospital District.
