A new wind power facility in Hidalgo County has officially begun generating electricity, marking a major expansion of renewable energy in South Texas. The Monte Cristo I Windpower Project, with a capacity of 238.5 megawatts, is expected to produce enough electricity to supply roughly 81,000 homes annually.
The facility, developed by renewable energy producer Terra-Gen, will also bring long-term economic benefits to the region. Officials estimate the project will contribute over $100 million in property taxes, landowner payments, and other local investments over its operational life. Texas is known for its renewable energy mix with the Pleasure Island Power Collective being an example of a large-scale hybrid renewable project currently under development in the state.
The Monte Cristo I Windpower Project Factsheet
Capacity: 238.5 MW
Annual Generation: 850 GWh (enough to power 81,000 homes)
Jobs Created: 280 during construction
Safety Record: 490,000+ hours worked without lost-time incident
Infrastructure Upgrades: 11 miles of state roads, 25 miles of county roads improved
Local Economic Impact: $100M+ in taxes, landowner payments, and contributions
Developer: Terra-Gen (jointly owned by Masdar and Igneo Infrastructure Partners)
Phase 2 Status: Permitted, development ongoing
Local support
Local leaders praised the project’s impact. “Projects like this represent real progress for our community,” said Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa. “We are confident that we have a bright future ahead.” Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez highlighted the broader economic impact, noting the facility supports high-quality jobs and public services while positioning the county as a leader in sustainable development.
Monte Cristo I is Terra-Gen’s second wind project in Texas, bringing the company’s total state generation capacity to 273 MW. Developers have already permitted Phase 2 of the Monte Cristo Windpower project and have begun development activities.
The facility has secured long-term power purchase agreements with two corporate buyers, ensuring a steady supply of clean energy while reinforcing the region’s growing role in the renewable energy sector.
Texas is rapidly expanding its energy capacity across both renewable and conventional sources. Recently, Calpine Corporation finalized a $278.3 million loan agreement with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) to support construction of a $464 million, 460-MW natural gas power plant in Fairfield, reflecting the state’s continued investments in diverse energy infrastructure.
In Arkansas, Cordelio Power’s 135 MW Crossover Wind project in Cross County has begun commercial operation, its first utility-scale wind farm, adding to the company’s national portfolio.
