Cheveron Butte, Arizona — On June 1, AES Corporation announced the commencement of commercial operation of Phase 1 of the Cheveron Butte Wind Farm.

The project is located at Cheveron Butte Ranch in Coconino and Navajo Counties, Arizona.

The Cheveron Butte Project is expected to produce a total of 454MW of wind energy when both phases are fully operational next year. In the first phase of the project, 238 MW of clean energy will be brought online, with the remaining 216 MW he expected to reach commercial operation in 2024.

“This landmark project will bring cost-competitive renewable energy to the state of Arizona while operating one of the oldest working ranches in Arizona,” said AES vice president and chief executive. Bernard da Santos, COO and President of Renewables, said.

The wind farm will coexist with existing land use, allowing landlord families and the Arizona Land Department to continue raising livestock and managing the land.

All lease payments to the State Department of Lands directly fund Arizona public schools, colleges and other beneficiaries in the state.

AES has achieved international recognition in the dark skies of northern Arizona by integrating a radar-activated lighting system that allows federally-required turbine lights to illuminate only when low-flying aircraft are nearby. The company said it has incorporated unique design features to maintain character.

The project will include a total of 105 wind turbines when fully built. Upon completion of both phases, AES’ Cheveron Butte wind farm is expected to generate enough electricity to power 110,000 homes annually.

Information provided by AES