Kit Carson Electric Cooperative Begins Construction on Amalia II Solar and Battery Facility in Northern New Mexico
 

In collaboration with RCCLA, Guzman Energy, and Luminace, the construction of the Amalia II Solar & Battery Facility has commenced. The facility is expected to become commercially operational by December 2025. Amalia, NM — Kit Carson Electric Cooperative (KCEC) is proud to announce the start of construction on the Amalia II Solar and Battery Storage Facility, located in the heart of Amalia, New Mexico. This milestone marks another step forward in KCEC’s ongoing commitment to renewable energy, grid resilience, and energy independence for its members. This significant addition will be placed adjacent to the existing 1.25 MW Amalia I solar facility, effectively elevating KCEC's total solar generation capacity to approximately 52 MW and 25 MW of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), positioning it as the second-largest solar installation within the cooperative's service territory.

In partnership with Luminace, the renewable energy developer, and in close coordination with the Rio Costilla Cooperative Livestock Association (RCCLA), site preparation and earthwork are now underway. The Amalia II facility will build on the success of the original Amalia solar site by adding 8.75 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation, along with 8.75 MW and 17.5 megawatt-hours (MWh) of advanced battery storage. The new photovoltaic arrays and a state-of-the-art BESS will help store solar power for use during peak demand and evening hours.

“This project reflects our cooperative mission to deliver reliable, clean, and sustainable energy to our communities while preserving the heritage and natural resources of the region,” said Luis A. Reyes Jr., CEO of Kit Carson Electric Cooperative. “Through strong partnerships with Guzman Energy, RCCLA and Luminace, we’re ensuring that this development benefits both our energy future and the communities we serve.”

KCEC acknowledges Guzman Energy, its wholesale supplier, for its steadfast support in helping the cooperative meet its renewable energy goals. This strong partnership empowers KCEC to deliver affordable and innovative energy solutions that decisively benefit our members, strengthen local economies, and enhance energy independence. Guzman Energy will manage all aspects of energy operations, including the strategic oversight and dispatching of the innovative BESS.

Strategically positioned adjacent to the existing Amalia I facility, the new Amalia II project will occupy land leased from RCCLA, whose membership comprises dedicated local ranching, farming, and hunting families. Under a comprehensive 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), KCEC will procure energy generated by Luminace, a leading renewable energy developer known for its commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

The construction phase of KCEC's Amalia II facility will include a utility-scale solar array and battery storage system that involves several key steps necessary for preparing and building the energygenerating system. It begins with land preparation, which includes clearing vegetation, leveling the terrain, and installing fencing and access roads. Next, the installation of solar arrays and battery packs will occur. The project concludes with system testing and commissioning to ensure everything operates efficiently and safely before the facility becomes operational. The KCEC Amalia II Solar and Battery facility is expected to be completed and commercially operational by December 2025.

The Amalia II facility will enhance solar energy generation and increase battery capacity in the region. It will also play a crucial role in wildfire mitigation, improving the reliability and resilience of the local energy grid. Additionally, KCEC is working on three BESS microgrid projects and focusing on clean hydrogen production to overcome the challenges of energy generation during non-daylight hours.

All of these projects—Amalia II and BESS microgrids—are part of a comprehensive renewable energy system designed to improve the reliability and resilience of KCEC's hydrogen initiative infrastructure for the future. This integrated approach positions KCEC as a leader in rural energy transformation, offering solutions that focus on both environmental sustainability and member reliability.

he Amalia II solar array and battery facility represents a significant achievement, as it is the 21st solar facility owned or operated by KCEC within its service territory. This installation will enhance KCEC’s renewable energy portfolio and serve as the third battery storage facility integrated into its operations. The application of advanced battery technology is expected to improve the reliability and efficiency of energy distribution, thereby enabling KCEC to serve the needs of its members while promoting sustainability within the region.
 

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About Kit Carson Electric Cooperative
Formed in 1944, Kit Carson is a member owned electric distribution cooperative in northern New Mexico and is the second largest cooperative in the state. Kit Carson is one of 16 electric cooperatives that serve rural New Mexico communities, serving nearly 30,000 members in Taos, Colfax and Rio Arriba counties. To learn more about Kit Carson, visit www.kitcarson.com.

About Guzman Energy
Guzman Energy is a wholesale power provider dedicated to communities in search of affordable and reliable energy. We partner with cooperatives, municipalities, companies, and tribes across North America to customize energy portfolios that make economic and environmental sense for today and tomorrow. Together, we are lighting the way forward. Visit www.guzmanenergy.com.