Ørsted Initiates Construction of 200 MW Blackwater Solar Project in New Mexico
Ørsted has commenced construction on its Blackwater Solar project, a 200 MW facility located in Roosevelt County, New Mexico. This marks Ørsted's inaugural development in the state. The project is designed to generate sufficient electricity to power over 56,000 homes annually within the Southwest Power Pool region. Commercial operations are anticipated to begin in late 2027. In addition to power generation, Ørsted is contributing $100,000 towards the restoration of an 8.8-acre playa near Melrose, New Mexico, a type of seasonal wetland crucial for local wildlife and water resources. The company also projects that Blackwater Solar will contribute nearly $18 million in property tax revenue to Roosevelt County over its operational lifespan, which will support local schools, infrastructure, first responders, and other public services. The solar panels for the project are being sourced from First Solar, incorporating domestic manufacturing into the supply chain.