Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego have introduced the La Paz County Solar Energy and Job Creation Act to expand solar energy and create economic opportunities in La Paz County. The bill has companion legislation in the House, introduced by Representatives Paul Gosar, Andy Biggs, and David Schweikert. Kelly stated, “La Paz County is using its resources to power thousands of homes with clean, affordable energy while creating good-paying jobs,” according to the Office of the Arizona Senator.
A bill has been introduced to purchase 3,400 acres of federal land in La Paz County for the development of solar power and battery storage. The project could generate 500 MW of solar energy and 900 MWH of battery storage, enough to power around 75,000 homes. It is expected to create 700 construction jobs and 10 permanent positions. La Paz County Supervisor Holly Irwin stated that the bill is part of their plan to make the county home to the largest solar project in the nation. Gallego said, “I’m proud to introduce this bill to enable La Paz County to continue its incredible work harnessing Arizona’s most abundant resource – the sun.” The project also involves a partnership with the Colorado River Indian Tribes to protect tribal artifacts, as reported by the Office of the Arizona Senator.
The collaboration with Colorado River Indian Tribes has been praised for its nonpartisan approach. Colorado River Indian Tribes Chairwoman Amelia Flores said, "Protection of CRIT cultural resources and economic development are not partisan issues, so I am grateful that Senator Gallego is joining Congressman Gosar in introducing this legislation." The legislation aims to enhance solar initiatives in La Paz County, with Arizona playing a key role in solar energy production. The bill, which focuses on green energy and job creation, is available on Senator Kelly's website, as stated by the Office of the Arizona Senator.
