New energy generation and battery systems are officially in service in Earth, Texas and Hobbs, New Mexico, Xcel Energy announced this week.
In a news release, Xcel announced the solar generation and battery energy storage systems are online at both Plant X site near Earth and at the Cunningham Generating Station near Hobbs. Both have been in service since April 1.
“This is about making smart, responsible investments on behalf of our customers,” said Brad Baldridge, interim president, Xcel Energy – Texas, New Mexico. “These projects reflect how we plan for the long term, to balance energy resources and deliver reliable service while implementing cost effective solutions for our customers.”
Plant X Solar replaced the former natural gas units, and includes 150 megawatts of solar generation across 1,200 acres east of the existing plant. Xcel is planning to add a 150-megawatt surplus battery energy storage system that could be operational in 2027, pending regulatory approval.
Cunningham 1 Solar is a 72-megawatt solar facility with a 36-megawatt surplus battery storage system. A second project, Cunningham 2 Solar, will produce 196 megawatts and is expected to go online in April 2027. Once finished, Cunningham solar development will cover around 6,500 acres.
Xcel said solar generation reduces cost of fuel, and the battery systems should make it less expensive to produce and deliver energy during high-demand periods.
Alana Edgin writes about business for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Got a news tip? Contact her via email at aedgin@lubbockonline.com.
This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Xcel announces solar generation, storage plans online and growing
Reporting by Alana Edgin, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal / Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
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