MSWD Renewable Energy Solar Project

MSWD is advancing a major renewable-energy investment to reduce long-term operating costs and support a more sustainable water future for our community. The MSWD Renewable Energy Solar Project will generate clean electricity at key MSWD facilities, helping offset energy use associated with water treatment and wastewater operations.

This project is being developed across three sites and is structured so each location can begin producing power as soon as it receives approval from Southern California Edison (SCE). Below, you can explore an overview of the project, the key details of how it works, and the primary benefits to MSWD customers and operations.

The MSWD Renewable Solar Project is designed to deliver approximately 4 megawatts (MW) of clean solar energy across three major MSWD sites: the Horton Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), the Nancy Wright Regional Water Reclamation Facility, and the Little Morongo RES-BCT location. By generating solar power on-site, MSWD can reduce reliance on grid electricity while supporting operational resilience and sustainability goals.

The project approach focuses on practical, measurable outcomes, including reduced energy costs over time and improved budget predictability for energy-intensive utility operations. This initiative reflects MSWD’s ongoing commitment to responsible resource management and energy efficiency.

Total Solar Capacity: Approximately 4,364 kW (DC) across three MSWD facilities.

Project Partner: Trident Mission Springs LLC.

Operational Flexibility: Each solar site can be commissioned independently once Permission to Operate (PTO) is received from SCE, allowing MSWD to begin using solar power sooner rather than waiting for all sites to be completed at the same time.

Performance Guarantee: Trident Mission Springs LLC will compensate MSWD for lost savings if energy production falls below 90% of projected output, providing added protection for expected project value.

Cost Savings Structure: MSWD will purchase solar-generated energy at rates that are expected to be lower than current SCE rates, supporting ongoing affordability.

Faster commissioning: Each site can go live as soon as PTO is approved, rather than delaying activation until all sites are ready.

Accelerated energy savings: Earlier activation means MSWD can begin reducing energy costs sooner.

Reduced operational risk: A staged rollout helps prevent a delay at one location from holding up progress at the others.

Lower energy costs: MSWD pays for solar power at rates below current SCE pricing, supporting long-term operating efficiency.

Guaranteed performance: The production guarantee helps protect MSWD from underperformance-related losses and reinforces accountability for project results.

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MSWD Renewable Energy Solar Project

Project Overview

Key Details

Project Benefits