The project will provide renewable energy to prominent Nevada clients, including MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Wynn Las Vegas
Estuary Power has secured $340 million in funding for its innovative Escape Solar and Storage project in Lincoln County, Nevada. The project, which started construction in late 2024, will be the first big solar initiative in the county and plans to start running in 2025.
Tesla-Powered Battery Storage to Fuel Green Energy for MGM, Caesars, and Wynn
The Escape project will include 185 megawatts (MW) of solar photovoltaic capacity along with 400 megawatt-hours (MWh) of battery storage. This setup aims to supply green energy to major Nevada customers such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, Wynn Las Vegas, and Overton Power District. MGM has signed long-term contracts to receive 115 MW of solar power and all of the battery storage. The other customers will divide the leftover capacity among themselves.
Covering 900 acres, the facility will feature 389,000 high-tech bifacial photovoltaic panels. These panels can catch sunlight on both sides to boost productivity. JinkoSolar will provide the panels, while Tesla will supply and set up the battery storage system. Bechtel Infrastructure and Power Corporation leads the solar array construction, and Dashiell Corporation handles substation and transmission upgrades.
The project will have a big impact on the local economy. Throughout its life, Escape is set to bring in $80 million in tax money for Lincoln County. Also, the build uses union workers from several local and national groups. These include the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Laborers’ International Union of North America.
Union-Backed Solar Initiative Marks a Milestone in Nevada’s Green Energy Push
Jill Daniel, the CEO of Estuary Power, took pride in the company’s success. She stressed its dedication to sustainability and teamwork with customers. Daniel pointed out that the project could help clients reach their renewable energy targets while adding to Nevada’s green energy history.
A group of big names provided financing for Escape. Morgan Stanley Renewables Inc., Denham Capital, and several banks gave bridge loans and long-term building funds. Law firms like Norton Rose Fulbright and Mayer Brown offered legal advice and support.
Brian Hale, who heads Ullico Inc., spoke about the project’s two main benefits. Ullico’s infrastructure fund is a major investor in Estuary Power. Hale said the project gives good returns to union pension funds and creates jobs for union workers.
Kelley Brown, who manages operations at Bechtel’s renewables division, spoke about the company’s long-term partnership with Estuary and its commitment to boost Nevada’s renewable energy portfolio.Nevada keeps pushing to lead in renewable energy. The Escape Solar and Storage project marks a big move forward. It blends cutting-edge tech economic boost and care for the environment.
