AES opens first phase of 454 MW wind project in Arizona

The AES Corporation has commenced the commercial operations of the 238 MW first phase of its 454 MW Chevelon Butte wind project located in Coconino and Navajo Counties, Arizona, USA. The wind farm is planned to be fully operational next year.

The Chevelon Butte facility will be compatible with existing land uses, allowing the landowner family and the Arizona State Land Department to continue raising livestock and ensuring proper stewardship of this property.

To minimize potential environmental damage, AES included exclusive design features in coordination with regulators and permitting authorities. By integrating a radar-activated lighting system that enables federally required turbine lights to turn on only when low-flying aircraft are in the vicinity, the project preserves Northern Arizona's internationally recognized dark sky characteristics. The project will include a total of 105 wind turbines at full buildout. When fully complete, the facility is expected to power 110,000 homes annually.