Commercial operations begin at MGM Resorts Mega Solar Array in Las Vegas

A joint effort between Invenergy and AEP Renewables has yielded the beginning of operations for the 100 MW MGM Resorts Mega Solar Array project, meant to supply 13 MGM Resorts properties in Las Vegas.

The project is located in the desert north of Las Vegas and will supply up to 90 percent of the MGM Resorts properties’ daytime power needs. It is expected to generate more than $12 million in property tax revenue and $1.3 million in state sales tax revenue. It will run for more than 35 years and produce enough power to support more than 27,000 U.S. homes on average each year.

“The Mega Solar Array is another valuable addition to AEP Renewables’ growing portfolio of clean energy projects,” Greg Hall, president of AEP Renewables, said. “We look forward to our continued partnership with Invenergy as we provide renewable, emissions-free energy to power MGM Resorts, which will help the company reach its sustainability goals and reduce its carbon footprint.”

Invenergy handled the development and construction of the array. AP Renewables has a 75 percent ownership interest in the project, with Invenergy maintaining the rest. Operations, maintenance, and the balance of plant services will be handled by a subsidiary of Invenergy — Invenergy Services — under a long-term agreement.

“The start of commercial operations at the Mega Solar Array is a significant milestone, and we’re proud to celebrate this achievement with our partners,” Ted Romaine, senior vice president of Origination at Invenergy, said. “Invenergy is a leading partner to companies like MGM Resorts who are increasingly focused on sustainability, and we commend the company’s dedication to investing in clean energy to power its operations.”

The power produced by the project has been contracted to MGM Resorts International under a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement. This will be utilized to power 65 million square feet of property. It will also support an internal goal for MGM Resorts to reduce emissions by 45 percent per square foot across its buildings as of 2025.