MGM Resorts International Strengthens Sustainability Goals with New Power Purchase Agreement

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MGM Resorts International has made a significant advancement in its sustainability efforts by signing a groundbreaking power purchase agreement with Escape Solar. This 25-year agreement is a pivotal step in MGM Resorts’ ambitious plan to achieve 100% renewable electricity in North America by 2030. By leveraging the Escape Solar + Storage project, MGM Resorts is set to more than double its access to clean solar energy, reinforcing its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability.

Details of the Power Purchase Agreement

Under the newly signed agreement, MGM Resorts will harness the benefits of the Escape Solar + Storage project, a major renewable energy initiative located in Lincoln County, Nevada. Scheduled to commence operations in early 2026, this project is expected to generate renewable electricity equivalent to the annual power consumption of over 28,000 average U.S. homes.

The contract represents a substantial increase in MGM Resorts’ clean energy portfolio, enhancing its current use of solar power. Currently, MGM Resorts utilizes solar energy to meet 90% of the total daytime energy needs across 11 of its Las Vegas Strip properties. The new agreement will extend this coverage to 100% of daytime needs and provide renewable power into the early evening hours, supporting operations such as exterior lighting.

Enhancing MGM Resorts’ Renewable Energy Capabilities

The partnership with Escape Solar will play a critical role in helping MGM Resorts meet its climate goals. By expanding its access to solar power, the company is not only advancing its environmental objectives but also setting a benchmark for sustainability in the hospitality industry. The initiative aligns with MGM Resorts’ broader strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance resource conservation.

Statements from Key Stakeholders

Bill Hornbuckle, CEO and President of MGM Resorts, expressed enthusiasm about the new agreement, stating: “This agreement is the next step toward the achievement of our climate goals. We have our eyes on meeting our science-based targets and goal of sourcing 100% of our electricity in North America from renewable sources by 2030. As we continue the journey toward greater sustainability, we remain dedicated to finding new ways to reduce our carbon footprint, conserve resources and inspire others to join in building a more sustainable world for generations to come.”

Hornbuckle’s comments underscore MGM Resorts’ dedication to integrating renewable energy solutions into its operations and its commitment to long-term environmental stewardship.

Jill Daniel, CEO of Estuary Power, also highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting: “Estuary is delighted to contribute to MGM Resorts’ industry-leading renewable energy objectives by supplying solar energy and battery capacity from our Escape Solar project. MGM Resorts’ purchase of renewable energy from Escape will reduce carbon emissions by nearly 250,000 metric tons annually. In addition, Escape will generate substantial economic benefits for Lincoln County, Nevada as the first utility-scale solar project in the county and will create over 250 well-paying construction jobs.”

Daniel’s remarks emphasize the dual impact of the project: advancing sustainability and generating economic benefits for the local community.

The Impact of the Escape Solar + Storage Project

The Escape Solar + Storage project is a landmark development in the field of renewable energy. Its benefits extend beyond MGM Resorts, contributing to both environmental and economic improvements. Key impacts include:

Reduction in Carbon Emissions: By replacing fossil-fuel-based energy with solar power, the project is expected to cut carbon emissions by approximately 250,000 metric tons annually. This reduction represents a significant step toward mitigating climate change.
Economic Growth: The project will stimulate economic development in Lincoln County, Nevada, by creating over 250 construction jobs. This job creation provides a substantial boost to the local economy and supports the community’s growth.
Energy Reliability and Storage: The inclusion of energy storage capabilities ensures a consistent supply of renewable power, enhancing reliability and supporting MGM Resorts’ energy needs during periods of high demand or low sunlight.

MGM Resorts’ Commitment to Sustainability

MGM Resorts has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The new power purchase agreement with Escape Solar is part of a broader strategy to achieve its goal of 100% renewable electricity by 2030. This strategy includes:

Investing in Renewable Energy: Expanding the use of solar and other renewable energy sources to meet operational needs.
Improving Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-saving technologies and practices to reduce overall energy consumption.
Supporting Environmental Initiatives: Engaging in projects and partnerships that promote environmental conservation and sustainability.

Conclusion: The Agreement

MGM Resorts International’s recent power purchase agreement with Escape Solar marks a significant milestone in its journey toward achieving 100% renewable electricity in North America by 2030. The agreement not only strengthens the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability but also sets a precedent for the hospitality industry. By leveraging the Escape Solar + Storage project, MGM Resorts is taking a proactive approach to reducing its carbon footprint, supporting local economic development, and enhancing its renewable energy capabilities.

FAQs About MGM Resorts International’s New Power Purchase Agreement

1. What is the new power purchase agreement signed by MGM Resorts International?

MGM Resorts International has signed a 25-year power purchase agreement with Escape Solar. This agreement will significantly increase the company’s access to clean solar energy, aiding its goal of sourcing 100% renewable electricity in North America by 2030.

2. What is the Escape Solar + Storage project?

The Escape Solar + Storage project is a renewable energy initiative located in Lincoln County, Nevada. It is expected to begin operations in early 2026 and will produce renewable electricity equivalent to the annual power usage of over 28,000 average U.S. homes.

3. How will the new agreement affect MGM Resorts’ energy usage?

The agreement will enhance MGM Resorts’ current use of solar power, increasing its coverage to 100% of the total daytime energy needs at 11 of its Las Vegas Strip properties. Additionally, it will extend renewable power usage into early evening hours for purposes such as exterior lighting.

4. What are the environmental benefits of the Escape Solar project?

The Escape Solar project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by nearly 250,000 metric tons annually. This significant reduction in emissions supports MGM Resorts’ climate goals and contributes to global efforts to combat climate change.

5. What economic impacts will the Escape Solar project have?

The project will generate substantial economic benefits for Lincoln County, Nevada. It will create over 250 well-paying construction jobs and serve as the first utility-scale solar project in the county, contributing to local economic growth.

6. How does the agreement align with MGM Resorts’ sustainability goals?

The power purchase agreement is a key component of MGM Resorts’ strategy to achieve 100% renewable electricity in North America by 2030. It supports the company’s broader sustainability efforts, including reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing resource conservation.

7. What is MGM Resorts’ current use of solar power?

Currently, MGM Resorts uses solar power to meet 90% of the total daytime energy needs at 11 of its Las Vegas Strip properties. The new agreement will increase this coverage to 100% of daytime needs and provide renewable energy into the early evening hours.

8. Who are the key figures involved in the agreement?

Bill Hornbuckle, CEO and President of MGM Resorts, and Jill Daniel, CEO of Estuary Power, are the key figures involved in the agreement. Hornbuckle highlighted the company’s commitment to its climate goals, while Daniel emphasized the benefits of the project for both the environment and the local economy.