News Summary
Torch Clean Energy has unveiled plans for its new ‘Winchester’ solar project in Cochise County, Arizona, which will feature two solar arrays with a capacity of 160 MW and a robust battery storage system. Set to power approximately 26,880 homes, this initiative aims to bolster regional energy efficiency, support local infrastructure, and contribute to broader clean energy goals across the U.S.
Cochise County, Arizona
Torch Clean Energy has announced the development of the “Winchester” project in Cochise County, Arizona, which will consist of two solar arrays with a total capacity of 160 megawatts (MW). The project is anticipated to become operational by early 2027.
The solar arrays will be complemented by a 160 MW / 640 megawatt-hour (MWh) battery storage system provided by Fluence Energy. This battery system, known as Gridstack Pro 5000, is designed for high density, swift deployment, superior performance, and safety, thus enhancing the overall efficiency of the solar energy produced.
Community Impact
The Winchester project is expected to provide enough solar energy to power approximately 26,880 homes, based on the national average of 168 homes powered per MW of solar energy. It aims to support regional grid balancing and forecasted load growth in Cochise County, while also fostering economic development and local infrastructure investments in the area.
Broader Clean Energy Trends
This initiative is part of a larger trend of clean energy deployment expected throughout the United States. Utility-scale battery storage is projected to more than double in capacity within the next two years, with the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimating that domestic utility-scale battery storage will approach 65 gigawatts (GW) by the end of 2026.
Torch Clean Energy has been actively involved in renewable energy development across the U.S., having developed over 1.2 GW of green power assets primarily in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Southwest regions. The components of the Gridstack Pro 5000 battery system will be domestically manufactured to qualify for domestic content tax credits.
Corporate Partnerships
Torch Clean Energy’s President has expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration with Fluence, outlining the critical importance of the battery system in efficiently dispatching solar energy. The President of Fluence Americas has described the project as a pivotal step towards ensuring reliable and affordable power for the local community while simultaneously supporting economic activity in the region.
Conclusion
The Winchester project stands as a significant advancement in Cochise County’s renewable energy landscape, promising to deliver substantial benefits to the community and contribute to national clean energy goals.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Clean Technica: 160 MW / 640 MWh Arizona Energy Storage System Announced
- Utility Dive: Torch Clean Energy Taps Fluence for 640 MWh Battery at Arizona Solar Plant
- Quiver Quant: Fluence Energy and Torch Clean Energy Unveil Winchester Solar-Plus-Storage Project in Arizona
- Power Technology: Silicon Ranch Solar Project in Arizona
- Tucson.com: Local News on Solar Projects
- Wikipedia: Renewable energy in the United States
- Google Search: Energy storage Arizona
- Google Scholar: Utility scale energy storage
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Solar Energy
- Google News: Arizona solar projects
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
