- Recurrent Energy has launched commercial operations of its 1,200-MWh Papago Storage facility in Maricopa County, Arizona.
- The project is the first of three Recurrent Energy projects with APS and reflects growing investment in grid reliability, clean energy, and community development.
Recurrent Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar, announced on Monday, July 7, that its 1,200 megawatt-hour (MWh) Papago Storage facility in Maricopa County, Arizona, has entered commercial operation and is now supplying stored energy to Arizona Public Service (APS), the state’s largest electric utility.
The facility, designed to bolster grid reliability during peak summer demand, is the first of three Recurrent Energy projects contracted under tolling agreements with APS. The trio will deliver 1,800 MWh of battery storage and 150 MWac of solar generation capacity.
“Summer is here, and we are ready to serve APS customers with the energy they need when needed,” said Derek Seaman, APS Director of Resource Acquisition. “The Papago Storage project is part of our diverse and balanced energy mix, helping us continue to provide Arizona with top-tier reliability and affordable service.”
Arizona Corporation Commission Chair Kevin Thompson praised the launch, calling the 300MW facility one of the state’s largest energy storage projects. “Bringing this online during a critical time of growing demand will help utilities respond with an all-of-the-above strategy and enhance energy diversification,” he said.
Arizona House Majority Leader Michael Carbone also welcomed the development. “With our favourable business climate, Arizona’s economy is attracting global investment. The Papago Storage Project will play an important role in our state’s energy future,” he said.
Recurrent Energy’s CEO, Ismael Guerrero, described the project as a significant milestone in its partnership with APS. “We’re proud to deliver flexible capacity that meets the state’s growing energy needs and grateful for APS’s continued support,” he said. “As we begin operations, we remain committed to building long-term value for the local community and our partners.”
Canadian Solar’s majority-owned subsidiary, e-STORAGE, handled engineering, procurement, and construction and will provide long-term operations support for the site.
Beyond energy reliability, Papago Storage also contributes to local development. Recurrent Energy donated to the Harquahala Fire District and Arlington Elementary School in Maricopa County through its Community Care Program.
Recurrent Energy has developed, built, and connected about 12 GWp of solar and 6 GWh of storage projects globally. As of March 31, 2025, its pipeline includes approximately 25 GWp of solar and more than 69 GWh of energy storage capacity, excluding China.