The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has finalized an $861.3 million loan guarantee to support the development of two solar plus battery facilities and two standalone battery facilities in Puerto Rico. Collectively known as Project Marahu, these projects will contribute 200 MW of solar generation capacity and up to 285 MW/1,140 MWh of standalone energy storage to the island's electric grid.

Led by Clean Flexible Energy, an indirect subsidiary of AES Corp. and TotalEnergies Holdings USA, the Marahu installations are projected to generate approximately 460,000 MWh of energy annually—enough to power around 43,000 homes. The initiative aligns with Puerto Rico's goal of eliminating coal-fired energy generation by 2028 and achieving a 100% renewable energy grid by 2050.

Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm emphasized the project's significance, stating that reliable energy access is critical, especially in light of climate-change-induced natural disasters. The loan guarantee is part of DOE’s Energy Infrastructure Reinvestment program, established by the Inflation Reduction Act, and complements other federal efforts aimed at bolstering Puerto Rico’s electricity system.

A community benefits plan, which is currently being finalized, will soon be made public. The Marahu project team is collaborating with local community relations managers and advisors to ensure effective community engagement. AES has also established partnerships with community development non-profits and educational institutions to provide targeted training and career development opportunities, particularly for women in the region.

Source: utilitydive.com