Longroad Energy Secures Funding for Arizona Solar Project

• Longroad Energy's Sun Pond project in Arizona is set to power the future with 111 MW of solar and innovative energy storage, launching sustainable energy by mid-2026.

Longroad Energy has achieved financial close for its Sun Pond solar project in Arizona, which will feature 111 MW DC of solar capacity and 85 MW/340 MWh of energy storage. Construction has already started, with the facility expected to be operational by mid-2026. Financing was secured through a consortium led by US Bancorp Impact Finance, which also serves as the project's tax equity investor.

Part of Longroad’s larger Sun Streams initiative, Sun Pond will contribute to a total of 973 MW DC of solar and 600 MW/2,400 MWh of storage. Located in Maricopa County, the project will utilize First Solar panels and include long-term power purchase agreements with the City of San Jose and Ava Community Energy. McCarthy Building Companies is the EPC contractor, while NovaSource Power Services and Longroad will manage operations, alongside Fluence for the battery system.

What are the key features and stakeholders of Longroad Energy's Sun Pond project?

Key Features of Longroad Energy's Sun Pond Project

• Solar Capacity: The Sun Pond project will have a total installed capacity of 111 MW DC (direct current), contributing significantly to renewable energy generation in the region.
• Energy Storage System: It incorporates an 85 MW/340 MWh energy storage solution, enabling the storage of excess solar power for use during periods of high demand or low generation.
• Construction Timeline: As of now, construction has already commenced, with plans for the facility to become operational by mid-2026.
• Part of a Larger Initiative: Sun Pond is a component of Longroad Energy's broader Sun Streams initiative, which aims to generate a total of 973 MW DC of solar energy and 600 MW/2,400 MWh of energy storage across multiple projects.
• Location: The project is strategically located in Maricopa County, Arizona, which benefits from high solar insolation, making it an ideal site for solar energy generation.
• Solar Technology: The facility will utilize First Solar panels, known for their efficiency and reliability in solar energy production.
• Power Purchase Agreements: Longroad Energy has secured long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with notable entities including the City of San Jose and Ava Community Energy, ensuring a stable revenue stream for the project.

Key Stakeholders in the Sun Pond Project

• Longroad Energy: The developer and primary project manager responsible for overseeing the construction and operational phases of the Sun Pond facility.
• US Bancorp Impact Finance: Serving as the lead financing entity, it has played a pivotal role in securing the project's financial closure and acts as the tax equity investor.
• McCarthy Building Companies: Engaged as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor, responsible for the on-site construction and project management.
• NovaSource Power Services: Partnering with Longroad Energy for the operational management of the solar project, focused on maximizing efficiency and performance post-construction.
• Fluence Energy: Collaborating on the development of the energy storage system, bringing expertise in battery technology and management to ensure reliable energy dispatch.
• City of San Jose & Ava Community Energy: These entities are key stakeholders in terms of long-term energy purchasing, enabling them to meet their renewable energy goals while supporting the project's viability.

This project stands as a testament to the increasing trend of integrating solar energy generation with energy storage systems, providing a more resilient and sustainable energy future.