Desert Quartzite solar and storage project begins operation, supplying 300MW to Clean Power Alliance

EDF Renewables North America and Power Sustainable Energy Infrastructure Inc. (PSEI) have officially announced the commercial operation of the Desert Quartzite Solar+Storage Project, a major milestone in California’s transition toward sustainable energy. The 375 MWdc/300 MWac solar project, paired with a 150 MWac/4-hour battery energy storage system (BESS), is now delivering clean electricity to Clean Power Alliance (CPA) under a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA).

Located in Riverside County, California, on federal land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the project supports California’s aggressive decarbonization targets by integrating solar power storage solutions that ensure grid stability and energy reliability even after sunset.

Why Is Solar Power Storage Critical for Grid Stability?

The Desert Quartzite Solar+Storage Project is a key advancement in renewable energy infrastructure, addressing one of the biggest challenges in solar power: intermittency. By incorporating battery energy storage, the facility stores excess solar energy generated during peak daylight hours and releases it later to balance electricity demand and supply. This innovation reduces strain on the power grid and enhances energy security for California residents.

According to Devon Muto, Vice President of West Development at EDF Renewables, integrating solar power storage is crucial for maintaining a reliable, cost-effective energy supply:

“Battery energy storage systems are essential in ensuring that clean electricity remains accessible even when the sun isn’t shining. This technology strengthens our ability to deliver sustainable, affordable, and resilient power to communities across California.”

Beyond energy storage, the project contributes to grid reliability by stabilizing electricity prices, mitigating peak-hour shortages, and reducing reliance on fossil fuel backup systems.

What Impact Will the Desert Quartzite Project Have on California’s Energy Market?

With California’s ambitious goal to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2045, large-scale projects like Desert Quartzite play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and expanding access to renewable energy resources. The project generates enough electricity to power over 163,000 homes, significantly reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

Pierre-Olivier Perras, Managing Partner at Power Sustainable Energy Infrastructure, highlighted the project’s significance:

“Our investment in the California utility-scale market reflects our commitment to supporting renewable energy growth across North America. The collaboration with EDF Renewables ensures that we continue driving forward clean electricity generation while fostering a sustainable energy ecosystem.”

The project aligns with California’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) regulations, which mandate that utilities increase renewable energy adoption while ensuring grid reliability and efficiency. By securing a long-term PPA with Clean Power Alliance, the Desert Quartzite Solar+Storage Project reinforces the economic viability of solar power storage in large-scale energy projects.

How Does This Project Support California’s Decarbonization Efforts?

At full capacity, the Desert Quartzite Solar+Storage Project is expected to offset over 669,000 metric tons of CO₂ emissions annually, equivalent to removing 145,000 gasoline-powered vehicles from the road. This significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions highlights the project’s role in accelerating California’s clean energy transition.

EDF Renewables has been at the forefront of renewable energy innovation, having developed over 18 gigawatts of wind, solar, and battery storage projects across North America. The company’s leadership in solar power storage solutions ensures that projects like Desert Quartzite continue to drive progress toward a carbon-neutral energy grid.

How Will the Project Benefit the Local Economy?

Beyond environmental benefits, the Desert Quartzite Solar+Storage Project has made a substantial impact on job creation and economic growth in Riverside County. During its peak construction phase, the project generated 450 jobs, contributing to local employment opportunities while upholding the highest safety and operational standards.

EDF Renewables emphasized that zero recordable safety incidents occurred throughout the two-year construction process, demonstrating the company’s commitment to workplace safety and responsible development.

The project also strengthens California’s energy infrastructure, reducing reliance on imported electricity and enhancing the state’s ability to produce and distribute clean electricity independently.

What Does the Future Hold for Large-Scale Solar Power Storage?

The success of the Desert Quartzite Solar+Storage Project underscores the increasing demand for utility-scale solar projects with integrated battery storage systems. As California and other states move toward renewable energy dominance, investments in solar power storage will be critical for maintaining grid stability and ensuring consistent electricity supply.

With a long-term focus on decarbonization, EDF Renewables and Power Sustainable are positioned to expand their clean energy portfolios, further solidifying their role in North America’s renewable energy transition.

The Desert Quartzite Solar+Storage Project represents a landmark achievement in California’s clean energy transition, reinforcing the importance of solar power storage solutions in achieving grid reliability and sustainability. By supplying 300 MW of clean electricity to Clean Power Alliance, the project is a testament to the growing viability of renewable energy investments in large-scale power generation.

As demand for renewable energy projects continues to rise, collaborations between industry leaders like EDF Renewables and Power Sustainable will be essential in driving the next generation of clean electricity generation.