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EDP Renewables North America (EDPR NA) has successfully completed three new large-scale solar projects, adding a total of 400 megawatts (MW) of clean energy to the grid. As part of this effort, Microsoft has agreed to purchase 389 MW of electricity and renewable energy credits (RECs) from these projects through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs). With this addition, EDPR NA and Microsoft now have a total of five operational solar projects in the U.S. In Southern Illinois, EDPR NA commissioned the 140 MW Wolf Run Solar Project near Jacksonville and the 110 MW Hickory Solar Project near Jerseyville in November last year. In December, the 150 MW Cattlemen II Solar Project, located near Austin, Texas, also came online. Microsoft is purchasing power from the Hickory project, which features an Environmental Justice Power Purchase Agreement (EJ PPA). Developed in collaboration with Volt Energy Utility, a minority-owned renewable energy company, the EJ PPA is designed to support communities disproportionately affected by pollution and climate change. Through this agreement, funding will be directed to the Sharing the Power Foundation, which provides financial assistance for clean energy access, workforce training, and energy assistance programs. Beyond clean energy production, these projects contribute significantly to local economies. In Illinois, Wolf Run and Hickory have collectively provided $4.8 million to landowners who lease their land for the solar farms. Additionally, they have generated millions of dollars in tax revenue to support schools, infrastructure, and other public services. These two projects created 500 construction jobs and established five permanent positions. In Texas, the Cattlemen II Solar Project is also making a substantial economic impact, with tax contributions benefiting local schools and government operations. The project created approximately 300 construction jobs and will sustain several permanent jobs in the region. Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO, EDP Renewables North America, said “The importance of ensuring benefits flowing from renewable energy development directly into communities has never been more important. Through these three additional projects, we’re keeping our promise – and indeed the industry’s promise – to contribute to the nation’s growing energy demand and in that process invest in long-lasting economic growth of our communities.” Kourtney Nelson, Senior Director of Renewable Energy Procurement, Microsoft, stated “It’s exciting when projects achieve commercial operations and begin generating clean energy in support of grid decarbonization. We’re pleased with EDPR NA and Volt Energy Utility’s collaboration on Hickory and the positive impact the project will have with community grants and investing in future renewable energy leaders.” The construction and operation of these projects have already driven significant local spending, with more than $10.4 million injected into nearby communities through expenditures at restaurants, hotels, and retail businesses. As these solar farms continue running, they will provide long-term economic and environmental benefits, further strengthening their surrounding communities. |
