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Leeward Renewable Energy (“LRE” or the “Company”) has signed two 200-megawatt (MW) Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with Microsoft Corp. (“Microsoft”).
Under these agreements, Microsoft will procure the electricity generated by two 200-MW solar facilities developed by LRE: Morrow Lake Solar in Frio County, Texas, and Cradle Solar in Brazoria County, Texas. These projects will employ First Solar’s ultra-low carbon, thin-film photovoltaic solar modules, contributing to job creation, local economic growth, and environmental initiatives. The initiatives include comprehensive land stewardship activities aimed at promoting soil health, conserving native plant species, and enhancing biodiversity.
Red River, a collaboration between SunChase Power and Eolian, embarked on the development of Morrow Lake Solar in 2017. Both ventures actively contribute to community welfare by supporting diverse programs.
In Frio County, the Morrow Lake Solar project has generated 313 construction jobs, with 112 recruited locally. Meanwhile, the construction of Cradle Solar in Brazoria County is expected to create over 300 construction jobs at its peak. Construction activities at the Morrow Lake Solar facility are underway and are slated for completion by the fourth quarter of 2024. On the other hand, construction at the Cradle Solar facility is anticipated to commence in the second quarter of 2024, with completion targeted for the fourth quarter of 2025.
“We are honored to collaborate with Microsoft in our joint commitment to accelerate the energy transition with the addition of these clean energy projects,” said Jason Allen, LRE’s Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to strengthening our relationships with Frio County and Brazoria County as we develop and operate the two facilities and deliver substantial and transformative benefits for local residents and communities for years to come, all while we support U.S. manufacturing.”
“Morrow Lake would not have been possible without the commitment of our landowners or the ongoing support of local stakeholders,” added Will Furgeson, Vice President of SunChase Power. “We are excited to partner with LRE to bring another solar project to Frio County and to bolster ERCOT’s supply of electricity production during the times when ERCOT most needs it – midday hours of the hottest days and most extreme weather conditions when system reliability is at a premium.” |
