Recurrent Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar Inc., announced that the 1,200 MWh Papago Storage facility in Maricopa County, Arizona, is now commercially operational. The project is delivering stored energy to Arizona Public Service (APS), the state’s largest electric utility, helping meet peak electricity demand during the summer months.
Ismael Guerrero, CEO of Recurrent Energy, stated, “The commissioning of Papago Storage marks a major milestone in our collaboration with APS to strengthen Arizona’s energy infrastructure. We’re proud to deliver flexible capacity that meets the state’s growing energy needs and grateful for APS’s continued partnership. As we begin operations, we remain committed to building long-term value for the local community and our partners.”
Papago Storage is the first of three Recurrent Energy projects with tolling agreements secured with APS to reach commercial operation. Together, the three projects will offer a combined 1,800 MWh of battery storage capacity and 150 MWac of solar generation.Derek Seaman, APS Director of Resource Acquisition, said, “Summer is here, and we are ready to serve APS customers with the energy they need when they need it. The Papago Storage project is part of our diverse and balanced energy mix, helping us continue to provide Arizona with top-tier reliability and affordable service.”
Kevin Thompson, Chair of the Arizona Corporation Commission noted, “I commend Recurrent Energy for completion of their 300MW Papago Energy Storage Project. Bringing online one of our state’s largest battery storage projects during this critical time when energy demand is growing rapidly will help our utilities execute an all-of-the-above response to that demand and further diversify Arizona’s energy resources.”
Arizona House Majority Leader Michael Carbone added, “I congratulate Recurrent Energy on this tremendous energy storage achievement. With our favorable business climate, Arizona’s economy is attracting development from all over the world, and we must provide the energy to accommodate this incredible growth. The Papago Storage Project will play an important role in Arizona’s energy future.”
Once all facilities are fully operational, the systems will be capable of storing and delivering enough energy to power approximately 72,000 homes for four hours, in addition to supplying solar energy sufficient to support around 24,000 homes annually.
