DESRI has officially commenced construction on the Catclaw Solar & Storage Facility, a large-scale renewable energy project in Buckeye, Arizona-one of the most significant clean energy developments to-date for the state.
The estimated $400 million project combines a 205 MWac solar photovoltaic array with a 1,000 MWh battery energy storage system. DESRI executives announced the start of site preparation and early construction activities following the project’s Notice to Proceed, issued on November 11.
When complete, Catclaw will provide enough clean electricity to power over 60,000 homes annually and will contribute to stabilizing Arizona’s growing energy grid through storing excess solar energy produced during the day for use in the evening hours.
“This is a significant milestone for the advancement of grid reliability and clean energy production in Arizona,” said Craig Cornelius, Chief Executive Officer of DESRI. “The Catclaw facility will supply affordable, carbon-free energy and boost the regional economy.”
Size, Jobs
It will be developed on approximately 1,800 acres of land in the western Maricopa County desert, a region currently seeing much interest from renewable energy investors. According to DESRI, construction will create more than 300 local jobs at its peak, with completion and commissioning anticipated before the end of 2027.
The LFP technology used in the advanced battery component of the project allows for flexible energy dispatch to APS and other grid operators during periods of high demand. Catclaw will also play an important role in supporting Arizona’s renewable portfolio standard, which requires 100% clean power by 2050.
The EPC contract has been granted to Primoris Renewable Energy, while Tesla Megapack units are reportedly in consideration for the storage segment. DESRI has secured long-term power purchase agreements with regional utilities, ensuring predictable revenues and energy delivery for decades to come.
“Arizona’s west valley continues to be at the forefront of solar innovation,” said Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony. “Projects like Catclaw are vital not only for sustainability but for job creation and investment in our community.” Upon completion, Catclaw Solar & Storage will be one of the largest integrated renewable facilities in the Southwest, adding both capacity and resilience to the state’s power system.
Integrated Solar Photovoltaic and Battery Energy Storage Systems are increasingly proving to be the most effective model for developers. This momentum extends beyond Arizona—Texas, for example, is witnessing a similar boom with the upcoming Cold Creek Solar+Storage project, being developed by Doral Renewables LLC. The facility will deliver 430 megawatts of solar power paired with a 340-megawatt-hour battery system across Schleicher and Tom Green counties, feeding directly into the ERCOT grid.
Catclaw Solar & Storage Facility: Project Factsheet
Project Overview
Project Name: Catclaw Solar & Storage Facility
Location: Buckeye, Arizona (Western Maricopa County)
Developer: Desert Sun Renewable Investments (DESRI)
Project Type: Integrated Solar Photovoltaic + Battery Energy Storage System
Status: Under Construction (Notice to Proceed: November 11, 2025)
Technical Specifications
Solar Capacity: 205 MW (AC)
Storage Capacity: 1,000 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
Battery Technology: Advanced Lithium-Iron-Phosphate (LFP)
Storage Equipment: Tesla Megapack units (under consideration)
Site Area: Approximately 1,800 acres
Project Value & Timeline
Total Investment: $400 million
Construction Start: November 2025
Expected Completion: Late 2027
Project Lifespan: Multi-decade operation under long-term power purchase agreements
Energy Impact
Annual Output: Sufficient clean electricity to power more than 60,000 homes
Grid Function: Peak demand support through energy storage dispatch during evening hours
Off-takers: Arizona Public Service (APS) and regional grid operators
Environmental Contribution: Carbon-free energy generation supporting Arizona’s 100% clean power target by 2050
Economic Impact
Peak Construction Employment: Over 300 local jobs
Long-term Benefits: Regional economic growth, stable tax revenue, and community investment
Contractors:
EPC Contractor: Primoris Renewable Energy
Storage Technology Provider: Tesla (Megapack units under consideration)
