DESRI and El Paso Electric Break Ground on Major 130MW Carne Solar Project in New Mexico
D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) and El Paso Electric (EPE) have officially commenced construction on the 130MWac Carne solar and storage project in Deming, New Mexico. This marks DESRI’s second major solar facility in Luna County, building on the success of the Alta Luna project, which has been providing clean energy since 2017.
Powering New Mexico’s Clean Energy Future
Set to power approximately 37,600 homes annually, the Carne solar and storage project represents a significant step forward for EPE’s ambitious goal to achieve 80% clean energy by 2035 and 100% by 2045. The Carne facility, which includes a large-scale battery storage component, will not only provide reliable, cost-effective renewable power to the southwest but also support the regional transmission grid, ensuring stability and resilience.
“DESRI is thrilled to expand our footprint in New Mexico’s renewable energy sector with our fourth utility-scale project in the state,” said Hy Martin, Chief Development Officer of DESRI. “This project reinforces our strong partnership with EPE and showcases our commitment to the energy transition.”
A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Progress
The project is supported by a 20-year power purchase agreement with EPE and is expected to be operational by 2025. Collaborators Galehead Development and Lacuna Sustainable Investments played pivotal roles in the initial phases of the project’s development. Once completed, the site will significantly contribute to New Mexico’s Renewable Portfolio Standard goals, providing clean energy dedicated entirely to EPE’s New Mexico customers.
“The Carne facility is a key addition to our renewable portfolio,” said James Schichtl, EPE’s Vice President of Regulatory Operations and Resource Strategy. “The battery storage component will be the largest of its kind serving our customers, ensuring both capacity and reliability as we meet the growing demand for clean energy.”
Economic Growth and Local Opportunities
The Carne project will not only drive progress toward clean energy goals but also stimulate economic growth in the local community. SOLV Energy, the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor, will generate more than 300 construction jobs and provide valuable skills training and career development for the local workforce. The company will also manage the operations and maintenance of the facility once it becomes operational.
“We are proud to partner once again with DESRI to bring clean energy benefits to New Mexico,” said George Hershman, CEO of SOLV Energy. “Projects like Carne showcase the transformative power of renewable energy investments, creating jobs, boosting local economies, and driving sustainable growth.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Clean Energy in New Mexico
The Carne solar and storage project symbolizes a growing momentum toward renewable energy in New Mexico and beyond. As DESRI, EPE, and SOLV Energy continue to collaborate, they are paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future. With the addition of Carne, EPE is well on its way to meeting its renewable energy milestones, all while fostering strong community ties and economic development. #CleanEnergy #SolarPower #RenewableEnergy #NewMexico #SustainableFuture #EnergyTransition #GreenEnergy #CommunityGrowth #SolarProjects #BatteryStorage