In a significant move for Arizona’s renewable energy landscape, Avantus, formerly known as 8minute Solar Energy, has secured a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Arizona Public Service (APS) for the Kitt Solar Project. This ambitious initiative, set to break ground next year in Eloy, Pinal County, will harness 100 MWac/130 MWdc of solar energy and incorporate a robust 400 MWh of energy storage. With commercial operations slated for 2026, this project not only promises to bolster the state’s clean energy capacity but also aims to enhance grid resilience amid rising energy demands.
Cliff Graham, CEO of Avantus, emphasized the significance of this agreement, stating, “Avantus’ agreement with APS will expand the availability of clean and reliable energy in Arizona and is a testament to our leadership in developing high-quality renewable energy projects.” This sentiment resonates particularly in a state grappling with extreme heat and record-breaking electricity demands. Arizona experienced a staggering 113 consecutive days of temperatures soaring above 100°F this year, underscoring the urgency for sustainable energy solutions.
The Kitt Solar Project is set to offset an impressive 200,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, a crucial step in combating climate change while providing much-needed construction jobs—up to 400, to be precise. This influx of jobs is not just beneficial for the local economy; it also highlights the growing intersection of renewable energy and economic development. As the construction phase kicks off, local communities can look forward to new employment opportunities and the associated economic uplift.
Derek Seaman, APS Director of Resource Acquisition, pointed out the pressing need for this project, noting, “Over the next several years, customer peak energy demand in Arizona is expected to grow significantly.” The Kitt Solar Project is poised to play a pivotal role in APS’s expanding solar power and energy storage portfolio, offering reliable, cost-effective, and clean electricity to its customers. This development signals a proactive approach to energy management, particularly as climate challenges become more pronounced.
Avantus’s strategic positioning within the renewable energy sector is noteworthy. With a pipeline boasting 30 GW of solar and 94 GWh of energy storage projects, the company is not just a player but a significant contender in the race toward a sustainable energy future. The recent sale of the 225-MW Catclaw Solar and Energy Storage Project to D.E. Shaw Renewable Investments further solidifies Avantus’s commitment to expanding Arizona’s renewable energy capabilities.
The Kitt Solar Project is more than just another solar installation; it represents a critical step toward a more resilient energy grid in Arizona. The combination of solar power and energy storage is essential for meeting peak demand, especially during extreme heat events. As the state continues to grapple with climate-related challenges, initiatives like this one will be crucial in shaping a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. The implications are far-reaching, not just for Arizona but for the broader conversation about renewable energy’s role in combating climate change and ensuring energy security across the United States.
