El Paso Electric (EPE) and DE Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) have commenced construction on the Carne Solar and Storage Project in Deming, New Mexico. The project will feature a 130 MW solar facility paired with a 260 MWh storage system, furthering the region’s clean energy transition.

As DESRI’s second major solar investment in Luna County, following the 2017 Alta Luna project, Carne aims to support EPE’s goal of achieving 80% clean energy by 2035 and 100% by 2045.

DESRI’s Chief Development Officer, Hy Martin, expressed enthusiasm for continuing to invest in New Mexico’s energy transformation with this fourth utility-scale renewable energy facility in the state. The project will offer reliable and cost-effective clean energy to EPE while enhancing grid stability and creating economic opportunities for local communities.

A 20-year power purchase agreement has been signed with EPE, with commercial operations expected to begin in 2025. The facility is projected to generate enough clean energy annually to power approximately 37,600 households.

Initial development was overseen by Galehead Development and Lacuna Sustainable Investments. James Schichtl, EPE’s VP of Regulatory Affairs and Resource Strategy, emphasized that Carne will be crucial in meeting New Mexico’s Renewable Portfolio Standards and customer needs, particularly with its large-scale battery storage component.

SOLV Energy has been appointed as the EPC contractor and will also provide ongoing operations and maintenance once the project is operational. CEO George Hershman noted that the project will create over 300 construction jobs and offer valuable skills training and career development opportunities for the local workforce.

Approved by state regulators in 2023, Carne marks DESRI’s fourth battery storage investment in New Mexico, solidifying the state’s leadership in clean energy innovation.