Guest ContributorThe proposed Silver King Energy Center, a new energy generation project planned for unincorporated Pinal County, is scheduled to go before county officials for a zoning vote on February 18, marking a key milestone for a project supporters say will strengthen Arizona’s energy reliability and support long-term economic growth.
The project is designed to help meet Arizona’s rapidly growing energy demand, driven by population growth, advanced manufacturing, and large-scale industrial development across the region. As proposed, the Silver King Energy Center would add new generation capacity to the grid through a mix of solar, battery storage, and natural gas generation, providing both reliability and flexibility during periods of peak demand.
Project materials indicate the facility would combine 800 megawatts of solar and battery storage with 400 megawatts of natural gas generation, helping ensure consistent power delivery as energy needs continue to rise across the state.
In addition to supporting grid reliability, supporters point to the project’s economic impact. The Silver King Energy Center represents an estimated $2.9 billion capital investment and is expected to generate more than 2,300 direct job-years during construction, along with long-term operational jobs. The project would also generate new tax revenue for Pinal County and the state, including funding that benefits Arizona State Trust Land beneficiaries such as public education.
In a letter submitted to county leaders, the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry urged approval of the project, citing the need for timely investment in energy infrastructure to keep Arizona competitive.
“Arizona’s economic growth depends on having reliable, affordable energy,” Chamber President and CEO Danny Seiden said. “Projects like Silver King are critical to ensuring we can meet rising demand while supporting jobs, local revenue, and long-term economic stability for communities across the state.”
Support for the project extends beyond the business community. Labor organizations have also highlighted the project’s workforce impact and the opportunity to create high-quality construction jobs.
In a letter to county supervisors, IBEW Local 640 emphasized that the project would support thousands of hours of skilled electrical work, including opportunities for local workers and apprentices.
Other supporters have underscored the importance of planning ahead as Arizona continues to attract major employers and investment. In its letter, the Arizona Rock Products Association described the Silver King Energy Center as “a significant investment in Arizona’s energy future,” noting that infrastructure projects of this scale are essential to supporting continued economic development in Pinal County and beyond.
Local agricultural and conservation interests, including Seifert Ranches LLC and the Western Way, have also weighed in, pointing to the project’s alignment with long-term planning goals and the need for reliable energy to support agriculture, industry, and growing communities across the region.
The February 18 zoning vote will determine whether the Silver King Energy Center can move forward to the next phase of development.
Image via https://www.silverkingenergycenter.com/
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