An integrated, regional energy solution for the Southwest

The Southwest’s energy generation mix is evolving, marked by rapid growth in variable solar and wind energy projects. This changing generation mix is creating concerns over future energy in a region already experiencing rapid population growth, increasing energy demands and constrained interstate transmission lines. A modern approach to power is needed in the region to support this evolving and uncertain energy future.

ITC is evaluating the proposed Big Chino Valley Pumped Storage Project to serve as an integrated solution to help the Southwest overcome these challenges. The project will modernize the grid with a flexible solution to accommodate diverse generation resources, changing market demands and ever-evolving technology inputs.

The proposed project involves a large-scale pumped storage facility that will act like a large electric battery with the capacity to address storage of excess renewable energy, stabilize the electrical grid and redeploy excess renewable energy to where and when it is needed. The proposed site for the project is in Yavapai Coconino and Mohave counties in Northwest Arizona. If constructed, it will consist of upper and lower closed-looped reservoirs connected by an underground powerhouse and three transmission interconnections serving Arizona, Nevada and Southern California. ITC chose this site due to its suitable topography, available grid connections and proximity to grid market hubs.

You can explore the project via the map below, or click here to see a full-screen version.

About ITC
ITC Holdings Corp., the nation’s largest independent electricity transmission company, invests in the electricity transmission grid to improve reliability, expand access to markets, lower the costs of delivered energy and allow new generating resources to interconnect to its transmission systems.

Using the Federal Energy Regulatory Energy Commission-approved Traditional Licensing Process, with an enhanced modification for early National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) scoping, ITC is initiating a broad, holistic and transparent planning approach with consultation from stakeholders across key milestones to license the project and ensure project benefits are realized throughout the region.