NRS's Shallow Basket Energy Project Powers Jicarilla Apache Nation with Renewable Energy

Shallow Basket Energy Project: Powering the Jicarilla Apache Nation

National Renewable Solutions (NRS), a prominent player in the renewable energy sector, has made a significant stride with the launch of the Shallow Basket Energy Project. This innovative initiative features a robust 190 MW capacity, comprising a 140 MW solar installation and a 50 MW battery storage system. Officially operational as of August 2025, this project stands as a beacon of progress for the Jicarilla Apache Nation and showcases the possibilities of sustainable energy solutions in Native American territories.

Grand Opening Celebration

To commemorate the commencement of operations, NRS organized a grand opening event at the project site, joined by dignitaries from the Jicarilla Apache Nation, Guzman Energy, and Kit Carson Electric Cooperative (KCEC). This gathering highlighted the collaborative efforts that brought the project to fruition, all conducted on land owned by the Jicarilla Apache Nation.

Jicarilla Apache Nation President Adrian Notsinneh expressed pride in the project, stating, "The Shallow Basket Energy Project represents more than just clean power—it's a powerful step forward in the Jicarilla Apache Nation's journey towards energy sovereignty and economic self-determination. By hosting this project on our land, we're honoring our legacy of environmental stewardship while creating opportunities for our people and contributing to a more sustainable future for the region."

Benefits of the Shallow Basket Project

The Shallow Basket Energy Project is projected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 38,000 homes on an annual basis. The initiative not only delivers clean, renewable energy but also enhances the reliability of the local grid, allowing for energy storage and distribution during peak demand periods.

This project's technological backbone is fortified by Tesla's cutting-edge grid-forming technology and Megapack 2XL units, proudly constructed in Lathrop, California. The construction of the project was executed by Gridworks, a local Albuquerque-based firm.

Financial Backing and Future Prospects

NRS has shown robust financial management by refinancing the project's debts with key financial institutions, including MUFG Bank, Norddeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale, Siemens Financial Services, and Zions Bancorporation, N.A. This refinancing effort emphasizes NRS's commitment to sustainable growth and enhances the overall viability of the Shallow Basket Energy Project.

Bill Whitlock, NRS's CEO, noted, "The on-time, on-budget completion of Shallow Basket Energy is a major milestone for all our partners and especially for NRS as it transitions into an Independent Power Producer (IPP). This project exemplifies our commitment to providing reliable energy while upholding responsible environmental practices."

A Model for Community Engagement in Renewable Energy

Since its establishment in 2011, NRS has carved a niche in the renewable energy landscape by utilizing a community-centered approach to stakeholder engagement. As a renewable Independent Power Producer (IPP), it aims to create mutually beneficial partnerships in the development and operation of its utility-scale wind and solar projects across the United States.

The successful execution and operationalization of the Shallow Basket Energy Project stand as a testament to NRS's mission and a promising future for renewable energy in Native American communities. As the world increasingly pivots towards sustainable energy sources, projects like Shallow Basket illustrate the transformative potential of local resources and community cooperation.

For more information about NRS and its initiatives, please visit National Renewable Solutions.