Enel North America, the American branch of the Italian utility Enel, has commenced operations at the 326MW Stampede solar-plus-storage facility located in the state of Texas in the United States.

The solar photovoltaic component of the initiative commenced power generation in June 2024, whereas the 86MW battery energy storage system (BESS) is presently in the final stages of commissioning.

Nestlé, the renowned food and beverage corporation, stands as the exclusive tax equity investor in the Stampede solar-plus-storage venture. Additionally, Nestlé will procure the renewable energy attributes from the entire capacity of the solar photovoltaic plant.

This marks the second instance of collaboration between the two companies for a solar-plus-storage endeavor in Texas. In the previous year, Enel North America and Nestlé joined forces for the Ganado project, a 208MW initiative situated in Jackson County. The partnership involved both an investment and a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA).

Stephen Pike, who leads Enel North America’s renewable energy division, Enel Green Power North America, commented: “The Stampede project will contribute additional electricity to the grid just as demand escalates due to electrification and data centers. Moreover, its adaptable battery storage system will play a crucial role in grid stabilization during periods of heightened strain.”

This represents Enel’s most recent solar-plus-storage venture in Texas. Earlier this year, the company initiated activities at the Fence Post project located in Navarro County. Like the Stampede project, it features an 86MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in conjunction with 297MW of solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity.