New Mexico Co-op Partners with Guzman Energy for Solar-Battery Project

• New Mexico's Kit Carson Electric Cooperative partners with Guzman Energy for an 11 MW solar project with battery storage, expanding their local solar fleet and supporting the community's vision for clean energy.

New Mexico's Kit Carson Electric Cooperative (KCEC) has signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Guzman Energy for an 11 MW solar project with an 8.75 MW/17.5 MWh battery. The project, called Amalia II, is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2025 and will be built and maintained by Luminace, a renewable energy developer owned by Brookfield. Guzman Energy will oversee energy management, including the dispatching of the battery system. The project will increase KCEC's local solar fleet footprint to about 50 MW and will be constructed on land owned by the Rio Costilla Cooperative Livestock Association.

KCEC CEO Luis A. Reyes, Jr. stated that the Amalia II project was developed through discussions and listening to the local community, and it aligns with the community's vision and supports the mission of the Rio Costilla Cooperative Livestock Association to generate clean renewable energy while supporting community agriculture, farming, ranching, logging, and hunting.

What is the significance of the Amalia II solar project for KCEC and the local community?

• The Amalia II solar project is significant for KCEC as it will increase their local solar fleet footprint to about 50 MW, furthering their commitment to renewable energy.
• The project aligns with the community's vision and supports the mission of the Rio Costilla Cooperative Livestock Association to generate clean renewable energy.
• By generating clean energy, the project will contribute to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.
• The Amalia II project will support community agriculture, farming, ranching, logging, and hunting, providing economic opportunities for the local community.
• The power purchase agreement with Guzman Energy ensures a stable and reliable source of renewable energy for KCEC and the local community.
• The battery system included in the project will enhance energy management and provide energy storage capabilities, increasing the reliability and resilience of the local energy grid.
• The project will create jobs during the construction phase and potentially during the operation and maintenance phase, benefiting the local economy.
• The Amalia II solar project demonstrates KCEC's commitment to sustainable development and their efforts to transition to a clean energy future.
• The project will contribute to the diversification of the local energy mix, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting energy independence.
• The partnership with Luminace, a renewable energy developer owned by Brookfield, brings expertise and experience in the renewable energy sector, ensuring the successful implementation and operation of the project.