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The partnership between Microsoft, EDP Renewables NA, and Volt Energy represents a shared commitment to addressing environmental injustices and fostering community empowerment in both rural and urban areas disproportionately affected by such disparities. Through the utilization of an Environmental Justice Power Purchase Agreement (EJ PPA) developed by Microsoft and Volt Energy, the Hickory project will channel funds to the Sharing the Power Foundation. This foundation aims to nurture the next generation of environmental justice leaders and promote equitable opportunities within the clean energy economy.
EDP Renewables NA has pledged to retire carbon offsets equivalent to the emissions generated by the project’s material components and on-site construction and operations, as part of its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality at the project level. Additionally, the company has undertaken to prioritize the involvement of women and minority-owned businesses in project management and construction roles, aligning with its broader efforts to support workforce development in Illinois.
Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDPR NA, emphasized the importance of partnering with entities that share a dedication to implementing equitable strategies for community growth. Gilbert Campbell, Founder & CEO of Volt Energy Utility, highlighted the opportunity to address environmental injustices and facilitate clean energy pathways for minority-owned businesses and aspiring professionals.
Kourtney Nelson, Senior Director of Renewable Energy Procurement at Microsoft, expressed the company’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting climate resilience in under-resourced communities.
This collaboration expands upon previous engagements between EDPR NA and Microsoft, with Microsoft serving as an offtaker for EDPR NA’s Timber Road IV Wind Farm in Ohio. In addition to the Hickory project, Microsoft has recently entered into power purchase agreements for EDPR’s Wolf Run Solar Park in Illinois and Cattlemen Solar Park II in Texas, both expected to be operational by the end of 2024.
As EDPR NA continues its focus on engaging diverse stakeholders in the clean energy industry, the partnership signifies a unified effort towards building an inclusive and sustainable energy future |
