Recurrent Energy recently celebrated the commercial operation launch of its Papago storage facility. This large energy storage asset is located near Phoenix, Arizona, in Maricopa County. This facility is capable of storing 1.2 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of energy. Yet behind that milestone lies a tremendous success for the region—for improving grid reliability and serving local energy needs.
The Papago storage facility was the first to start construction in May 2024. It’s the first of three Recurrent Energy projects to go into operations under tolling agreements with Arizona Public Service (APS). The facility includes 167 megawatts of capacity to generate enough electricity to power more than 72,000 homes for four hours. This substantial production will dramatically increase the availability of renewable energy throughout the region.
Project Background and Development
The Papago storage facility was created with the engineering knowledge of e-STORAGE. This majority-owned subsidiary of Canadian Solar was responsible for delivering complete engineering, procurement, and construction services to make the project a reality. Working together, Recurrent Energy and e-STORAGE will continue to drive forward these innovative energy solutions. Together, they are making solar power work harder than it ever has before.
The facility provides enough solar energy to power the annual energy needs of approximately 24,000 homes. This announcement is a major step forward for Arizona’s renewable energy economy. Papago is notable, with its massive 1.8 GWh of battery storage. Combined with a strong solar generation capacity of 150 megawatts alternating current (MWac), it’s the full package. This integration further helps to establish the facility as an essential piece in Arizona’s move away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
Local officials see the Papago storage facility not only as a community resource, but as a key player in the regional energy market. Michael Carbone, an advocate for energy development in Arizona, commended Recurrent Energy’s achievement, stating:
“I congratulate Recurrent Energy on this tremendous energy storage achievement. With our favorable business climate, Arizona’s economy is attracting development from all over the world, and we must provide the energy to accommodate this incredible growth. The Papago storage project will play an important role in Arizona’s energy future.” – Michael Carbone
Kevin Thompson praised the project, highlighting its significance amid rising energy demand:
“I commend Recurrent Energy for completion of their 300MW Papago energy storage project. Bringing online one of our state’s largest battery storage projects during this critical time when energy demand is growing rapidly will help our utilities execute an all-of-the-above response to that demand and further diversify Arizona’s energy resources.” – Kevin Thompson
Derek Seaman, APS resource acquisition director, expressed confidence in the project’s capabilities:
“Summer is here, and we are ready to serve APS customers with the energy they need when they need it. The Papago storage project is part of our diverse and balanced energy mix, helping us continue to provide Arizona with top-tier reliability and affordable service.” – Derek Seaman