Author: PPD Team Date: 17/01/2025
Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE) has revealed plans for renewable energy projects exceeding 700 megawatts alternating current (MWac) in Oklahoma, supported by long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with Google.
The projects include the 372-MWac Mayes County solar portfolio, located near Google’s Pryor data centre. Construction is underway, with energy delivery facilitated through the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA).
The portfolio features three sites: Salt Branch Solar, Huckleberry Solar, and Mayes Solar. Along with the Twelvemile Solar Projects 1, 2, and 3, Oklahoma’s solar capacity will reach 724MWac.
These projects will provide economic benefits, creating 300 construction jobs and generating $76 million in tax revenue for Mayes County. Contributions exceeding $60,000 have already been made to local organisations, including the Red Cross and the Chamber of Commerce.
LRE Chief Commercial Officer Eran Mahrer emphasised the projects’ focus on utilising domestic equipment and fostering economic growth. The PPAs were facilitated by LevelTen Energy’s Accelerated Process (LEAP), streamlining clean energy sourcing.
Google’s global head of data centre energy, Amanda Peterson Corio, highlighted the partnership’s alignment with Google’s goal to operate on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030.
The solar projects will support renewable infrastructure in Oklahoma, powering more than 865,000 homes annually and preventing 3.7 million metric tonnes of CO₂ emissions over the PPA’s term.