Owned and operated by Enel North America, the 284 MW Azure Sky solar + storage project has earned the world’s first Envision Gold award for a renewable energy + battery storage project. Located west of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the project demonstrated that it is possible to generate an abundance of clean energy while simultaneously reducing construction waste, supporting local agriculture, protecting and enhancing natural resources, and prioritizing sustainable management practices for the long term. With operations commencing in 2022, the Azure Sky Solar’s 700,000 photovoltaic (PV) bi-facial panels generate over 586 GWh each year, equivalent to the electricity use of over 55,000 homes, thereby avoiding the equivalent of more than 386,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually. The integrated battery energy storage system (BESS), with a capacity of 95 MW / 116 MWh, was incorporated early as one of the key sustainability enhancements — adding flexibility and resilience to the project and the utility grid. Sustainability was integrated from the outset. The project was intentionally sited away from any critical habitat or protected areas. The location presented good solar radiation, and the topography made it possible to reduce earthwork and eliminate soil movement to and from the site. The site also promised good access — avoiding the creation of new access roads — and the point of connection to the grid is next to the substation, avoiding the need for a new transmission line. Project Partners Quotes “Enel is not only deploying the clean energy that North America needs, but we’re also building it the right way,” said Stephen Pike, head of Enel North America’s renewable energy business, Enel Green Power North America. “Receiving the Envision Gold designation for Azure Sky Solar validates our approach to designing sustainability into the entire life cycle of our plants. It also motivates us to continue to set new standards for innovation in the development, construction and operation of renewables. We’re honored to be recognized by ISI for this project.” “ISI congratulates Enel Green Power and the entire project team on earning an Envision Gold award for this project,” said Kristi Wamstad, ISI’s Verification Director. “With Azure Sky Solar, the project team has carefully demonstrated how the design and implementation of the facility contributes to a low-carbon future and delivers lasting community and ecological benefits.”
The owner, Enel North America, worked in close collaboration with several partners on the design-build construction of the project, including global sustainable development consultancy Arup (Envision firm), Primoris (Contractor), and Kertec (Land Restoration Consultant).
PROJECT DETAILS AT-A-GLANCE
Project Name: Azure Sky Solar LLC
Location: Haskell County, Texas
Envision Rating: Gold
Date: August 27, 2024
Owner: Enel North America
Envision Firm: Arup
Other Project Team Members: Primoris, Contractor; KerTec, Land restoration consultant
Total Project Cost: $312M
Delivery Method: Progressive Design-Build / EPC Contract
Project Phase: Operational
Project Website: https://www.enelgreenpower.com/our-projects/under-construction/azure-sky-solar-storage-project
