USA, New Mexico / California: The largest renewable energy project ever built in the United States has started generating electricity, marking a major milestone after nearly two decades of development. The SunZia Wind project has begun testing its 916 turbines and is expected to enter full commercial operation later this quarter.
The 3.5-GW wind development will transmit power over an 885-km (550-mi) line from New Mexico to California, supplying enough electricity for around 3 million people across California and Arizona. Early signs of its impact are already visible, with California breaking wind generation records multiple times in recent weeks, according to Grid Status.
The project’s transmission system is based on advanced HVDC technology secured for SunZia transmission, enabling efficient long-distance power delivery with reduced losses.
Turbine deployment for the project has now been completed, with Vestas completing turbines at SunZia, marking a key milestone in bringing the wind farm to full readiness.
System stability and grid integration are being strengthened through long-term technical support, with Hitachi Energy supporting SunZia transmission, ensuring reliable operation as large volumes of renewable power are added to the grid.
The project’s development was made possible through large-scale financial backing, with Pattern Energy closing $11 B financing on the SunZia project, enabling construction across multiple phases over nearly two decades.
SunZia is expected to play a key role in supporting California’s clean energy goals, particularly as it can generate power at night when solar output drops and demand for natural gas typically rises.
Clean energy advocates say the project will significantly boost electricity supply and help reduce carbon emissions, while supporting growing demand linked to data centres and artificial intelligence.
At 3.5 GW, SunZia is more than three times larger than the current largest US renewable project and ranks among the biggest wind developments globally.
Source: E&E News
