Origis Energy and Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association (TGTA) have completed construction of the Escalante Solar project, which has now achieved commercial operation.
The 200-MW PV project occupies the site of the former 253-MWAC coal-fired Escalante Generating Station in New Mexico.
Solar Array Powers Tri-State Under PPA with Origis Energy
Announced in 2020 as part of Tri-State’s Responsible Energy Plan, the project is the largest solar facility in Tri-State’s generation portfolio and is located within the service territory of its member, Continental Divide Electric Cooperative.
Under a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Origis Energy, the Escalante project will supply electricity to Tri-State’s customers and its 11 electric cooperative members in New Mexico.
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This initiative aligns with Tri-State’s Responsible Energy Plan and reflects the company’s dedication to providing sustainable power solutions to its members.
New Solar Project to Power 63,000 Homes
Generating 200 MWac of clean energy, the new solar project is projected to power around 63,000 homes. This development helps Tri-State reach its goal of 50% clean energy usage by 2025, meeting New Mexico’s Energy Transition Act requirements five years ahead of schedule.
Duane Highley, CEO of Tri-State, said, “Escalante Solar helps all our members achieve 50% clean energy usage by 2025, meeting the requirements of New Mexico’s Energy Transition Act five years ahead of schedule. We thank Origis Energy for their successful development of Escalante Solar and deeply appreciate their engagement with the local community.”
Guy Vanderhaegen, Executive Chairman of Origis Energy, highlighted the project’s importance, stating, “Every time a project is completed and begins commercial operation, there is cause to celebrate. We are especially delighted to bring affordable, reliable, renewable electricity to the members of Tri-State which helps meet Tri-State’s decarbonization goals.”
Project to Boost Local Economy and Job Opportunities
The project is expected to generate approximately $7.1 million in tax revenue for the county and $2.4 million for the local school district over its operational lifetime.
Robert E. Castillo, CEO and General Manager of Continental Divide Electric Cooperative, emphasized the project’s local advantages, stating, “The addition of a new tax base for McKinley County and our local school district is certainly beneficial, and we appreciate Tri-State and the project partners for bringing Escalante Solar to our region.”
Senator Martin Heinrich (D-New Mexico) praised the project for honoring New Mexico’s rich legacy of energy production: “New Mexico communities have a long, proud history of powering our state and the rest of our country. This new solar project builds on that tradition — connecting more families across our state to clean, low-cost electricity.”
Albuquerque-based Gridworks provided construction services for the Escalante project, employing around 400 people. Origis Energy Services will handle long-term operations and maintenance, supporting four to six permanent on-site jobs and contributing to the local economy.
The completion of the Escalante project is a landmark in Tri-State’s renewable energy efforts, marking a significant shift toward sustainability in New Mexico. By repurposing a former coal site, the project accelerates clean energy goals, delivers economic benefits to local communities, and demonstrates the power of renewable energy to support both environmental stewardship and regional prosperity.