The Return Of The Esmeralda 7 Solar Power Project - CleanTechnica

The article discusses the resurgence of the Esmeralda 7 solar power project cluster in Esmeralda County, Nevada, despite previous setbacks. The cluster comprises seven large-scale solar and battery storage projects totaling several gigawatts of capacity. Last fall, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum issued an order that appeared to halt these projects, raising concerns about the future of renewable energy development in the region. However, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, a Republican and rare renewable energy advocate within his party, actively opposed the restrictions, emphasizing the economic importance of renewable energy to Nevada’s key industries such as mining and data centers. Lombardo’s efforts included direct engagement with President Donald Trump during a November meeting in Washington, D.C., where he briefed Trump on the significance of solar energy to Nevada’s economy. Following this, Trump reportedly instructed Burgum to allow the projects, signaling a potential reversal of the earlier restrictions. Lombardo publicly reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Nevada’s solar industry and highlighted the state’s reliance