DESRI Launches 130-MW Solar Project in New Mexico

• DESRI breaks ground on the Carne solar-plus-storage park in New Mexico, set to power 37,600 homes annually with a cutting-edge 130-MW solar and 260 MWh battery system!

D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) has begun construction on a 130-MW solar farm with an integrated 260 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in Deming, Luna County, New Mexico. Named the Carne solar-plus-storage park, this is DESRI’s fourth utility-scale renewable energy project in the state. The facility will operate under a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with El Paso Electric (EPE) and is expected to start commercial operations next year, providing enough energy to power approximately 37,600 homes annually.

The project saw initial development by Galehead Development and Lacuna Sustainable Investments, with SOLV Energy appointed as the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor. SOLV Energy will also manage the site’s operations post-commissioning. DESRI already operates the 25-MW Alta Luna solar park in Luna County, which became operational in 2027.

What are the key details of DESRI's new Carne solar-plus-storage park in New Mexico?

Key Details of DESRI's New Carne Solar-Plus-Storage Park in New Mexico

• Project Name: Carne Solar-Plus-Storage Park
• Location: Deming, Luna County, New Mexico
• Capacity
  
• Solar Power: 130 MW
• Battery Energy Storage System (BESS): 260 MWh
• Developer: D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI)
  
• Project Development
  
• Initial Developers: Galehead Development and Lacuna Sustainable Investments
  
• EPC Contractor: SOLV Energy
• Operations Management: SOLV Energy post-commissioning
• Power Purchase Agreement (PPA):
• Duration: 20 years
• Off-taker: El Paso Electric (EPE)
• Commercial Operation Date: Expected to start next year
• Energy Output: Capable of powering approximately 37,600 homes annually
• Significance
• DESRI's Portfolio: Fourth utility-scale renewable energy project in New Mexico
• Existing Operations: DESRI also operates the 25-MW Alta Luna solar park in Luna County, operational since 2027
• Environmental Impact: Contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions and supports the transition to renewable energy sources in the region
• Economic Impact: Expected to create jobs during the construction phase and provide long-term operational roles, boosting the local economy
  
• Technological Integration: Combines solar power generation with battery storage to enhance grid reliability and energy availability during non-sunny periods

This comprehensive list highlights the key aspects of the Carne solar-plus-storage park, emphasizing its capacity, development process, and broader impact on the community and environment.