About The Project
Invenergy began construction on Phase 1 of the El Sol Energy Storage project (50 MW/200 MWh) in 2023 with the facility anticipating reaching commercial operations in mid-2024. The project has a long-term contract with APS for the power from the facility.
El Sol has an additional 100 MW in late stage development, permitted by the town of Youngtown, which is expected to reach commercial operations by 2027.
During the life of the project, El Sol Energy Storage Project is projected to pay millions of dollars in property taxes, salaries to employees, and payments for local goods and services, resulting in a significant increase in economic activity in the Youngtown and Maricopa County area. Local schools and county infrastructure will benefit from the increase in tax revenue.
Arizona is a national leader in solar generation potential. While Arizona ranks 5th in the nation for installed capacity to date, solar makes up 7.5% of the electricity generated in the state. The cost of solar energy in Arizona has declined by 38% over the last five years, making it more cost competitive with other energy sources while keeping electric rates affordable. Arizona's robust solar industry contributes greatly to the economy - the solar industry has invested over than $12 million into the Arizona economy.
To meet peak energy requirements and balance energy produced from solar and other resources, batteries provide a critical bridge to ensure that power remains reliable and affordable in Arizona.
The El Sol Energy Storage project is an excellent development opportunity for Youngtown, with millions to be invested in the local economy over the life of the project. We selected Youngtown for this project after intense and careful evaluation due to the:
• High energy demand center, power balancing is most needed here
• Existing substations, limiting the need for new infrastructure
• Low environmental impact risk
We take serious our commitment to our local host communities and have worked closely with colleagues in Youngtown to ensure that the project is developed in the vision of the local community. The project will contribute to the area's economic development and to providing an additional supply of clean, homegrown energy in Arizona.
To avoid and minimize impacts to wildlife and other natural resources, we work with state and federal agencies and other interested stakeholders to site, build, and operate our facilities responsibly.
All roads and infrastructure will be left in the same or better condition than they were prior to their use.