Expansion to Mandalay Bay solar array breaks national record

NRG Energy, Inc., and MGM Resorts International recently completed a record-breaking expansion to the rooftop solar array that runs atop Mandalay Bay Convention Center, cementing the system’s position as the largest rooftop array in the country.

“MGM Resorts International has a long history of integrating environmentally responsible practices throughout our operations to help preserve the planet’s limited resources,” Cindy Ortega, senior vice president and chief sustainability officer of MGM Resorts International, said. “Our continued partnership with NRG is a source of pride and inspires our desire to continually implement innovative solutions that promote renewable energy.”

The newly expanded array now contains more than 26,000 photovoltaic panels, providing 25 percent of the total power requirements for the entirety of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.

“Companies like MGM Resorts are driving an evolution in America’s energy mix as they seek cleaner sources of power that provide more certainty over energy costs,” Craig Cornelius, senior vice president of NRG Energy and head of NRG’s renewables group, said. “The solar array atop Mandalay Bay is stunning in its scope and functionality, and we’re thrilled to have MGM as a partner.”

In addition to their contribution to clean and renewable energy generation, the rooftop solar panels reduce the amount of energy drawn from the Nevada power grid during peak times and ensure stable pricing for MGM Resorts.