The Banita Creek Solar Project is a proposed 285-megawatt solar project in Nacogdoches, Texas. Developed with long-term reliability and responsible land stewardship in mind, the project brings together local labor, skilled engineering, and durable infrastructure to support the region’s growing energy needs. Once operational, Banita Creek will generate enough energy to power 55,000 homes annually, contributing to a more resilient grid while creating lasting economic and environmental benefits for the surrounding community.

No, there is no BESS included in the Banita Creek Solar Project design.

When the project first entered the interconnection process in July 2024, a battery component was included only to preserve optionality during early-stage planning.  Since then, Parliament Energy has formally notified ERCOT that the BESS has been removed from the project design. This change is reflected in ERCOT’s Resource Integration and Ongoing Operations system, and ERCOT has instructed Oncor to amend the project’s Interconnection Agreement accordingly.

There are no plans to include BESS in the project.

The Banita Creek Solar Project is being developed by Parliament Energy, a large-scale renewables platform focused on delivering reliable, sustainable power through disciplined development, operational control, and long-term infrastructure management.

Parliament Energy is owned by EnCap Investments, L.P. and Mercuria, positioning the company as a leading developer and operator in the renewable sector.

Parliament’s leadership team brings decades of cross-sector experience in developing and executing complex infrastructure projects.  The company is built on a foundation of reliability, safety and disciplined execution, principles that guide every stage of project development, from capital deployment to construction to long-term operations.

The Banita Creek Solar Project represents over half a billion dollars of private investment in Nacogdoches County and will deliver substantial long-term economic benefits.

Property Tax Revenue
Over its operational life, the project is expected to generate more than $41 million in property tax revenue, including:
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• Over $29 million for Nacogdoches Independent School District
• More than $11 million for Nacogdoches County

These funds can support long-term planning, facility improvements, educational programs, road maintenance, emergency services, and other essential public functions, without placing additional demand on existing infrastructure.

Construction-Phase Economic Activity
During the approximately 18-month construction period, Banita Creek Solar is expected to support hundreds of jobs, creating opportunities for local workers, contractors, and trades. The project will also generate significant spending at local businesses, from equipment suppliers and material yards to hotels, restaurants, and service providers, helping circulate dollars throughout the regional economy.