Powering Every Day, Together.
For more than 125 years, El Paso Electric has grown alongside the communities it serves. From powering streetcars to supporting today's homes, businesses, and emerging technologies, our history reflects the people, innovation, and resilience that continue to move our region forward.
1901 – 1925
Streetcars & Electrification
A transportation company discovers it's really in the power business, and El Paso gets its first taste of electric light.
1925–1988
Regional Growth & Generation Expansion
A transportation company becomes a full-fledged utility, building the power stations and crossing the state lines that would define the region for decades.
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1940
Installation of El Paso's Mountain Star
El Paso’s iconic Star on the Mountain was created in 1940 by the El Paso Electric Company (EPE) as a festive holiday decoration. Improvements were made in 1946. The length was increased to 459 feet, the width reduced to 278 feet and 459 (150 W) lights were used. Today the star still has those same dimensions.
1973–Present
Modernization & Energy Transition
From nuclear power to solar fields, EPE weathers a bankruptcy, sheds coal, and rebuilds its portfolio around cleaner generation.
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1973 - 1988
Participation in Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station
EPE joined the Arizona Nuclear Power Project in 1973. The resulting Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station became the largest nuclear power plant in the United States, with EPE holding a significant ownership interest. The three units entered service between 1986 and 1988.
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1992
EPE Files for Bankruptcy
El Paso Electric filed for bankruptcy due to a combination of heavy investments in the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station and unfavorable rate negotiations. Despite this fallback, EPE was able to financially recover and invest in energy projects needed to serve the growing community.
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2006
EPE Develops Its First Utility-Scale Solar Facility
This marked El Paso Electric's entry into large-scale renewable energy generation and signaled the beginning of its transition toward a more diverse energy portfolio. This was its first utility-scale solar project and the foundation for future renewable investments.
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2015 - 2016
Montana Power Station Comes Online
Montana Power Station (MPS) is a natural gas generation facility equipped with advanced emissions controls and water-saving technology. The station features four quick-start generating units that provide reliable, efficient power to help meet the region’s growing energy needs. Since coming online, MPS has strengthened grid reliability and enhanced fuel diversity. During the extreme winter weather event of 2021, the facility played a critical role in maintaining electric service across the region.
2018 - Present
Renewable Energy and Electrification
Over the last two decades, EPE has grown from a single utility-scale solar project to a network of 14 solar facilities serving customers across West Texas and Southern New Mexico. Alongside this growth, EPE has advanced electrification efforts through electric vehicle programs, charging infrastructure initiatives, and customer education to support a cleaner energy future.
Holloman Air Force Base Atlas Solar (2018): Added a 5-megawatt solar facility to the region's renewable energy portfolio.
Solar Programs: Created customer-focused and business solar programs along with renewable energy options.
Aggie Power: Partnered with New Mexico State University to support solar energy research and innovation.
Electrification Initiatives (2021–Present): Expanded electric vehicle and beneficial electrification programs across the service territory.
EPE's electricity generation surpassed 1 billion kilowatt-hours for the first time in 1959.
Addition of Unit 9 at Rio Grande Power Station in 2013, featuring advanced, highly efficient natural-gas technology.
125 Years Committed to Serving Our Customers
Whether you’re looking for ways to save on your bill, electrify your household, explore solar options, or find assistance programs, we are here to help.
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