NextEra Energy Resources Has Been Investing in Chaves County for More than a Decade

In 2016, NextEra Energy Resources commissioned New Mexico’s largest solar energy project at the time in Chaves County. It launched a center with 600,000 solar panels and the capacity to power more than 40,000 homes. In the decade since, the relationship between NextEra Energy Resources and Chaves County has only grown stronger, with three total solar projects in the region and two battery storage systems in development.  

“Battery energy storage projects add critical flexibility, helping balance supply and demand during extreme weather and high-usage periods,” says Kayla Di Donato, associate project manager at NextEra Energy Resources. “Facilities like Chaves Energy Storage and Roswell Energy Storage help deliver dependable, cost-effective electricity, ensuring homes, businesses, and essential services have access to reliable power."

The solar sites and proposed battery systems are located just outside the city limits of Roswell. Keep reading to see how Chaves County has grown over the decade with a reliable energy partner. 

New Mexico is an Ideal State for Solar Investment

New Mexico is a high-potential state for solar investment. While it currently ranks 17th nationally in solar production, it ranks second for potential solar production. Statewide, there are nine million acres available for renewable energy leasing, with opportunities for both solar and wind energy.

“The New Mexico climate is perfect for solar,” says Di Donato. “The desert is sunny throughout the year, and we have panels that move with the sun throughout the day. Pairing solar energy sites with battery energy storage helps create a more stable grid. 

Solar and Storage Projects Create a More Stable Grid 

While New Mexico is ideal for solar development, there are still challenges with this form of energy since the sun sets. Over the past decade, engineers and innovators have been working on battery energy storage projects co-located with solar sites that store energy until it is needed.  

Battery energy storage projects can safely capture surplus energy – from the sun or from the grid – when energy demand is low and discharge low-cost electricity when demand is high. This seamless process helps keep power prices affordable.

This is where the two proposed 50-megawatt battery energy storage sites from NextEra Energy Resources come in. They can store energy from the sun or the grid during the day and then release it during peak times.

“These batteries can help prevent outages and ensure a more stable power grid,” says Di Donato. “These facilities reflect our commitment to safely delivering reliable energy solutions while providing meaningful economic benefits to local communities. ”

NextEra Energy Resources is committed to being a good neighbor. Battery energy storage systems look similar to shipping containers and generate little noise. NextEra Energy Resources has completed extensive noise studies and environmental impact evaluations to develop projects everyone can be proud of.  

NextEra Energy Resources Works Closely with Economic Developers

NextEra Energy Resources has had a strong partnership with the Roswell-Chaves County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) throughout its decade in the region. The EDC serves as a bridge to help NextEra Energy Resources navigate the permitting process and connect with county officials.

Recently, the EDC connected NextEra Energy Resources with the local school district, and the company participated in a STEM event for local middle and high school students. Various NextEra Energy Resources employees talked about their jobs and the career paths that led them there.  

“We want to work with the school system more in the future, along with other local groups,” says Di Donato. “We want to be a good partner and a good neighbor in the community.”

NextEra Energy Resources is also working with the EDC to develop a Community Benefits Agreement that will support Chaves County residents and ensure a lasting positive impact in the region.  

“NextEra Energy Resources has become the kind of long‑term partner every community hopes for – one that invests not only in infrastructure, but in people, education, and the long‑range stability of our local economy,” says Mike Espiritu, President and CEO of the RCCEDC. “Their solar and battery storage projects strengthen the reliability of our grid, which is essential for business recruitment, industrial growth, and quality of life in Chaves County. When companies choose to invest here year after year, it sends a powerful message: this is a region with momentum, resilience, and a future worth building. We’re proud to work alongside NextEra Energy Resources as they help position Chaves County for the next generation of economic opportunity.”

NextEra Energy Resources is an EDC member, but it is also an important resource supporting Chaves County businesses and residents. The company's energy projects will continue to strengthen the local grid in the coming decade and beyond. 

Learn More About Climate Resiliency in Chaves County

Roswell city officials and the greater Chaves County leadership are investing in climate resiliency. Along with solar projects through NextEra Energy Resources, the county offers a location near one of the only naturally recharging aquifers in the United States.

Contact the EDC to discuss climate initiatives in Chaves County and other infrastructure projects.