Expanding Horizons: Sempra Infrastructure's Cimarrón Wind Venture
By Sara Rodríguez
March 22, 2024
Sempra Infrastructure has unveiled plans to invest $550 million in the development, construction, and operation of the Cimarrón wind project, marking the third phase of the Sierra Juárez Wind Energy Complex (ESJ) in Baja California. The project is set to commence energy generation by late 2025.
With a total capacity of approximately 320 megawatts (MW), the Cimarrón project has secured a 20-year power purchase agreement with Silicon Valley Power, aiming to provide renewable energy to the city of Santa Clara, California.
Under agreements with Vestas and Elecnor, the project will see the purchase, installation, and supply of 64 wind turbines, as well as engineering, procurement, and construction of the wind farm.
Cimarrón will utilize Sempra Infrastructure's high-voltage cross-border transmission line, directly connecting the ESJ wind complex to the California Independent System Operator (CAISO).
The energy output from Cimarrón will be sufficient to power over 84,000 households annually and will result in a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 210,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2e) per year. The project's construction is expected to create over 2,000 direct and indirect jobs, with additional community investment as part of Sempra Infrastructure's commitment to social investment and sustainability.
Sempra Infrastructure's CEO, Justin Bird, emphasized the importance of expanding the Sierra Juárez Wind Energy Complex to meet the clean energy demands of Silicon Valley Power. He stated that the Cimarrón project is projected to yield solid financial returns, marking a significant milestone in the company's mission to become a leading energy infrastructure provider in North America.
Once operational, the Cimarrón project will contribute to elevating the ESJ wind complex's total installed capacity to over 580 MW, positioning it as one of Mexico's largest wind projects.