Construction begins on utility-scale solar plant at Holloman Air Force Base
The United States Air Force and El Paso Electric (EPE) announced Wednesday that construction began at a new five-megawatt (MW) solar facility that will serve Holloman Air Force Base (HAFB) in Otero County, New Mexico.
“Providing our warfighter with diverse, resilient energy sources is a key component of mission assurance,” Dan Soto, renewable energy division chief at the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) said. “The Air Force LogoAir Force is committed to providing installations the support they need to determine where initiatives and technologies such as on-base solar can complement and enhance installation energy assurance plans.”
M+W Energy is constructing the HAFB solar facility. The facility will be owned by EPE.
The 42-acre solar facility site will contain approximately 56,000 thin-film modules. The facility is expected to be operational in the third quarter of 2018.
“We are proud to be working with the Air Force by providing large scale solar to help ensure energy security now and in the future,” EPE President and CEO Mary Kipp said. “As a recognized leader in the implementation and expansion of utility-scale solar energy, we hope this collaboration with the Air Force, the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission and everyone involved will lead to additional projects with organizations who share our goal of fostering affordable, sustainable energy in our region.”
