With an investment in excess of $160 million, the construction of the 58MW solar plant Oriana created more than 1,000 direct jobs during construction, mostly for residents of Isabela and nearby communities. Once complete, the plant will continue to support 300 direct jobs.
“Fostering a good relationship with the local community has been critical in moving the Oriana project forward on schedule”, explained Leslie Hufstetler, VP of Development for Sonnedix Puerto Rico. Sonnedix Puerto Rico is developing a Corporate Social Responsibility program to ensure that the benefits of the Oriana project are felt across the region.
“We have created a positive relationship with the Isabela residents by holding community meetings to explain the project, recruiting workers from the area with the help of the Mayor’s office and are currently developing a Corporate Social Responsibility program to strengthen our presence in Isabela and the communities that surround the project.”