Entergy Arkansas brings 100 MW solar farm online, with 30 MW battery storage option

Entergy Arkansas’ Searcy Solar Energy Center went online last week, becoming the company’s first battery storage capable solar farm, with 30 MW of storage capability and no added fuel costs for customers.

“Solar energy is clean, renewable, abundant, and cost-effective,” Laura Landreaux, Entergy Arkansas president and CEO, said. “It is a smart way to increase our electricity supply, and the battery storage at this facility will keep power flowing even when the sun isn’t shining.”

With the addition of Searcy, Entergy Arkansas now has three solar plants at its disposal, including the 81 MW Stuttgart Solar facility and the 100 MW Chicot Solar at Lake Village. These facilities have been secured under long-term contracts with subsidiaries of NextEra Energy Resources. Combined with the 100 MW brought to bear by Searcy, they bring 281 MW of renewable energy to the region, which Entergy predicted will save customers more than $190 million, in addition to the environmental benefits provided.

The region itself could also benefit. According to Buck Layne, Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce director, Searcy could provide local tax revenue of approximately $900,000. Additionally, Entergy Arkansas has another 280 MW under development and recently issued a request for proposals for up to 500 MW of solar and wind capacity to add to its electricity generating portfolio by 2026.

“Adding renewable energy to our diverse mix of power generation sources is part of our strategy for keeping rates low for existing customers and remaining more competitive for businesses looking to expand or locate their next operation in Arkansas,” Landreaux said. “We have a rich tradition of working with our community, government, and business partners, and we are excited to be able to continue providing economic renewable energy to new and existing customers.”

Entergy Arkansas’ parent company, Entergy, plans to achieve 11 GW of renewable energy overall by 2030.