Solar project developer Avantus signed a power purchase agreement with Arizona Public Service (APS) for the Kitt Solar Project, a 100-MWAC array that will be paired with 400 MWh of energy storage. Located in Pinal County, Arizona, the Kitt Solar Project will complete development and start construction of the project in 2025, with operations expected to begin in 2026.
“Avantus’ agreement with APS will expand the availability of clean and reliable energy in Arizona and is a testament to our leadership in developing high-quality renewable energy projects,” said Cliff Graham, CEO of Avantus. “The Kitt Solar Project will not only deliver clean solar energy and offset carbon emissions but will provide much needed energy storage capacity to meet rising demand and create a more resilient grid in Arizona.”
Kitt is expected to create up to 400 construction jobs and generate local tax revenues for local services, such as schools, public safety and infrastructure throughout its operating life. The project has the capacity to serve up to 32,000 Arizona homes.
The solar + storage project will help address Arizona’s energy resiliency, as peak energy demands spike during extreme heat conditions. In 2024, Arizona saw 113 consecutive days of temperatures at or above 100°F, which also broke demand records for electricity — a trend that will likely continue for the foreseeable future.
“Over the next several years, customer peak energy demand in Arizona is expected to grow significantly,” said Derek Seaman, APS director of resource acquisition. “The Kitt Solar Project will add to our growing solar power and energy storage portfolio and provide our customers with additional reliable, cost-competitive and clean electricity.”
News item from Avantus
