A proposed 500-megawatt battery storage project in Hidden Valley encountered a temporary setback yesterday.

The Pinal County Planning and Zoning Commission voted 9-0 to continue multiple requests for Epic Star Energy’s Horseshoe Energy Project to a future date, according to the Phoenix Business Journal. The proposal included a natural gas power plant on approximately 159 acres near Table Top and Fulcar roads, outside city limits.

The commission’s Sept. 17 agenda listed four related requests from applicant Horseshoe BESS.

The requests would change the property’s zoning from single-family residential to industrial. They would also change its comprehensive plan designation from residential to employment.

Additionally, the applicant seeks to remove the property from the existing Hidden Valley Estates planned area development. A separate development overlay would establish standards for the energy facility, substations and supporting infrastructure.

InMaricopa previously reported divided opinions about the gas plant and battery storage proposal.

During an October 2025 neighborhood gathering, some residents supported placing energy infrastructure near the existing Pinal West Substation. Others raised concerns about noise, heat, water use and battery fires.

At that time, Epic Star co-founder Kelly Sarber said nearby utility infrastructure made the location attractive. She also said the company would study existing noise and lighting conditions.

Horseshoe joins a broader discussion about energy and technology projects around rural Maricopa. This included the October approval of a land use request for a proposed data center along Porter Road, although residents detailed concerns about water, noise and preserving rural character.