El Paso Electric (EPE) has initiated construction on a 10-megawatt (MW) solar facility as part of its ongoing efforts to expand the Texas Community Solar program. This expansion aims to accommodate an additional 5,000 customers seeking access to renewable energy sources.
The groundbreaking ceremony marks the commencement of construction for the solar facility, expected to be operational by the end of the year. Once completed, the facility will cover 70 acres of previously unused farm fields in San Elizario, Texas, and will feature 18,930 solar panels.
Jessica Christianson, Vice President of Sustainability and Energy Solutions at EPE, expressed the company’s commitment to providing accessible renewable energy options. She highlighted the success of the existing Texas Community Solar program and emphasized the importance of expanding capacity to meet growing customer demand.
EDF Renewables, a trusted partner of EPE, has been selected to oversee the construction of the solar facility. Kenton Martin, Senior Manager of Project Development at EDF Renewables, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration and reiterated the company’s dedication to supporting EPE’s sustainability initiatives.
The expanded Texas Community Solar Program offers several benefits to customers, including a 15% decrease in the minimum monthly capacity charge for both existing and new subscribers. Additionally, income-qualified residential subscribers will receive a 10% discount on the monthly capacity charge.
Subscribers to the program enjoy the advantages of solar energy without the upfront costs or maintenance associated with rooftop installations. The program is open to homeowners, renters, and business owners, and has been fully subscribed since 2017.
EPE customers interested in joining the Texas Community Solar program can enroll through the reserve list, which is available for both residential and commercial customers in the Texas service territory without existing rooftop solar panels.
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