EDP Renewables North America has completed three large-scale solar projects, adding 400 MW of clean energy to the grid. Microsoft has secured 389 MW through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs), reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy. This brings the total number of operational solar projects between EDPR NA and Microsoft to five in the United States.
New Solar Project Installations in Illinois and Texas
EDPR NA has commissioned the 140 MW Wolf Run Solar Project near Jacksonville, Illinois. The company has also completed the 110 MW Hickory Solar Project near Jerseyville. Both projects became operational in November last year. In December, the company brought the 150 MW Cattlemen II Solar Project online near Austin, Texas.
Microsoft is sourcing power from the Hickory Solar Project. This site features an Environmental Justice Power Purchase Agreement (EJ PPA) in collaboration with Volt Energy Utility. Volt Energy Utility is a minority-owned renewable energy developer. The EJ PPA directs funding to the Sharing the Power Foundation. The initiative supports clean energy access, workforce training, and energy assistance programs.
Kourtney Nelson, Senior Director of Renewable Energy Procurement, Microsoft, stated “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.”
Economic Benefits of the Solar Project Initiative
These solar projects provide economic benefits beyond energy production. In Illinois, Wolf Run and Hickory have contributed $4.8 million to landowners leasing land for the solar farms. Local governments have also received millions in tax revenue. These funds support schools, infrastructure and other public services. The two projects created 500 construction jobs and five permanent positions.
The Cattlemen II Solar Project in Texas is also making a positive impact. Tax contributions benefit local schools and government operations. The project created 300 construction jobs and will sustain several permanent jobs. The operational phase of these projects continues to drive local economic activity. More than $10.4 million has been spent in nearby communities at restaurants, hotels and retail businesses.
EDP Renewables North America’s Role in Clean Energy
EDPR NA is a leader in clean energy development. The company develops, constructs and operates renewable energy projects across North America. It has developed more than 12,000 MW of renewable energy capacity. The company operates 11,400 MW of onshore wind, solar and energy storage systems. Its headquarters are in Houston, Texas, with 61 wind farms and 26 solar parks across the continent.
The latest solar project expansion aligns with Microsoft’s commitment to achieving its sustainability goals. The company's partnership with EDPR NA reinforces its efforts to transition to clean energy. These solar projects will continue supporting the energy grid while fostering economic development.
With ongoing investments in solar power, EDPR NA continues strengthening the renewable energy landscape. These new projects enhance energy reliability while providing financial benefits to local communities. The completion of these three installations marks another milestone in the clean energy sector's growth.