Leeward Renewable Energy has announced that it has made deals with Microsoft Corp to buy 200-megawatt (MW) power from two solar projects.
Microsoft will buy power from two 200-MW LRE solar facilities in Texas. The facilities will use First Solar's ultra-low carbon, thin-film photovoltaic solar modules and will promote job creation, local economic benefits, and environmental protection measures.
“We are pleased to work with Microsoft to speed up the energy transition with these clean energy projects,” said Jason Allen, LRE’s Chief Executive Officer. “We are looking forward to developing and operating the facilities and bringing benefits to local communities while supporting U.S. manufacturing.”
Red River, a joint venture of SunChase Power and Eolian, began developing Morrow Lake Solar in 2017.
“Morrow Lake would not have been possible without the commitment of our landowners or the ongoing support of local stakeholders,” said Will Furgeson, Vice President of SunChase Power. “We are thrilled to partner with LRE to bring another solar project to Frio County and support electricity production during ERCOT's peak hours.”
Both projects support community programs, including education initiatives, youth agricultural training, and donations to local events.
The Morrow Lake Solar project has created 313 construction jobs in Frio County, with 112 being local hires. The Cradle Solar construction is expected to generate over 300 jobs in Brazoria County. Construction is underway at Morrow Lake Solar and is expected to be finished by the fourth quarter of 2024. Construction of the Cradle Solar facility is expected to start in the second quarter of 2024 and be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025.
