The Silver King Solar and Storage project, now called Silver King Energy Center, is back before Pinal County officials. The proposal includes up to 800 megawatts of solar photovoltaic generation, up to 800 megawatts of battery energy storage, and up to 400 megawatts of natural gas thermal generation. At full build-out, it could become the county’s largest energy development. The three applications will receive public hearings and votes at the January 15 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting.
The application covers 8,122 acres of Arizona State Trust Land northeast of Florence. Developers withdrew an earlier version of this project in October 2025. The Pinal Post previously reported on the initial application and the withdrawal.
What the Commission Will Consider
The applicant has filed three related applications. All three cover the full 8,122-acre site.
The first requests a Minor Comprehensive Plan Amendment from Moderate Low Density Residential to Special District, allowing solar and thermal energy generation and employment uses.
The second seeks a rezone from General Rural to Industrial. Of that, 6,671 acres would be designated for solar generation and related infrastructure. The remaining 1,451 acres would support natural gas thermal generation and mixed employment uses.
The third proposes a Planned Area Development overlay to establish development standards.
Battery Storage Capacity Not Specified
The application lists battery storage at up to 800 MW. However, total storage capacity depends on duration—how long the batteries can operate at full power. According to the county staff report, 4-hour duration is an industry benchmark for utility-scale batteries. The applicant has not specified duration for this project. Public commenters raised this issue during outreach. One wrote: “I would think that a solar development company would know that storage capacity is measured in MWh, not MW.”
Project Location
The site sits southwest of Florence Junction, south of Queen Creek Wash, and five miles north of East Arizona Farms Road. The Arizona State Land Department owns the property.
Silver King Solar LLC is the applicant, with Arevia Power LLC as agent.
Staff Recommendation and Hearing Information
County staff recommends approval of all three applications.
The developer held multiple open houses in April, September, and November 2025 at locations in Florence and Gold Canyon.
The commission meeting begins at 9:00 a.m. on January 15 at the Pinal County Administrative Complex, 301 E. 11th St., Florence. Residents may comment during the public hearings before commissioners vote. If approved, the applications would advance to the Board of Supervisors for final consideration. The full agenda is available online.
