The Pecos County Commissioners Court has approved a lease agreement with Apex Clean Energy, a renewable energy company based in Virginia, for 9,000 acres of land near Fort Stockton, Texas. The purpose of the lease is for energy production, specifically targeting hydrogen as a means to diversify the region's energy sources. Apex Clean Energy is known for originating, constructing, and operating utility-scale renewable energy projects across North America. The lease agreement includes a seven-year development period to evaluate the feasibility of the property, followed by a 30-year operational period. Payments to the school fund will increase progressively over time based on wind turbine installation fees and hydrogen production. Apex has committed to using alternate water sources for hydrogen production, including a water purchase lease agreement with Fort Stockton. The company's Pecos Flats Energy project, which includes wind, solar, and a green hydrogen electrolyzer, aims to utilize the region's resources sustainably. The project is estimated to require 40,000 barrels of water daily, with Apex assuring that its water usage will be less intensive than historical practices. The initiative not only showcases Apex's dedication to renewable energy but also contributes to economic development in the area.