Construction continues on $11 B SunZia project
Pattern Energy says construction is gaining pace on the 3.5 GW wind and transmission scheme, with full operations planned for 2026.
Image for illustrative purposes
USA, New Mexico / Arizona: Construction is continuing on the 3.5 GW SunZia Wind and Transmission Project, one of the most ambitious renewable energy developments in the United States. Despite wider challenges facing the clean energy sector, developer Pattern Energy says work on the project is progressing well, with operations expected to begin in 2026.
The construction of the project began in 2023 and includes a 3,500 MW wind farm, an 885-km (550-mi) 525 kV high-voltage direct current transmission line, several DC/AC converter stations and two 500 kV AC tie lines. Electricity generated in New Mexico will be delivered to south-central Arizona through a 3,000 MW bidirectional HVDC link.
Once completed, SunZia is set to become the largest onshore wind project in the Western Hemisphere. Pattern Energy has brought together major international energy companies to deliver the scheme, describing it as a defining project for the US wind market and a key step in expanding renewable power generation.
The project is designed to meet growing demand for clean electricity across the western United States. Spanning New Mexico and Arizona, it will run through desert regions and supply power to expanding industrial users and the fast-growing AI sector. With an estimated total cost of around $11 B, SunZia highlights the scale and ambition of future renewable energy investment in the country, even as the sector faces recent cutbacks.
Hundreds of wind turbines will be installed, supplied by GE Vernova and Vestas, while Hitachi Energy will provide the HVDC transmission technology. Pattern Energy said it remains committed to working closely with landowners and local communities throughout the project’s development.
Source: Energies Media
🔎 Discover more wind farm projects
#Arizona#converter station#GE Vernova#Hitachi Energy#HVDC#New Mexico#Pattern Energy#renewable power#SunZia#transmission line#United States#USA#Vestas#wind energy#wind project