EDP Renewables North America (EDPR NA) launched the 100-MW Riverstart III Solar Park in Randolph County, Indiana, today.
Credit: EDP Renewables North America
Amazon has contracted for all 100 MW of this third phase of the Riverstart Solar Park through a long-term power purchase agreement. The project is part of Amazon’s Climate Pledge commitment to meet net-zero carbon emissions across its operations by 2040, as well as the company’s efforts to match 100% of the electricity used by its operations with renewable energy.
Riverstart III will generate electricity equivalent to the consumption of more than 19,200 Indiana homes. The economic boost over the lifetime of the project will benefit local initiatives such as schools, road maintenance, infrastructure and other essential services. The project will provide an estimated $32.8 million to be paid to local governments in the form of tax payments. Approximately $2.9 million will be spent locally on restaurants, shops, gas stations and other retailers throughout the life of the project.
Construction on Riverstart III created more than 350 jobs, with multiple jobs to be created throughout its operation. Landowners and farmers within the project’s footprint will be paid $28 million in land lease agreements, providing extra income to help maintain their land and ease financial burdens during challenging markets and inclement weather affecting the U.S. agricultural sector. In a nod to environmental stewardship, EDPR NA incorporated pollinator-friendly practices into the construction and maintenance of Riverstart III.
“The continued growth of our portfolio in Indiana with the launch of this newest phase of Riverstart Solar is yet another example of the significant contribution that renewables and solar play to serve the Hoosier State’s growing energy needs,” said Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO, EDPR NA. “As the largest owner and operator of renewables in the state, we are grateful to Randolph County for our continued partnership focused on delivering economic and community benefits that have resulted in a positive track record.”
EDPR NA manages 11 phases of four renewable energy projects in Indiana, totaling 1.7 GW. Projects include two phases of the 398-MW Headwaters Wind Farm, six phases of the 801-MW Meadow Lake Wind Farm, three phases of the 300-MW Riverstart Solar Park and the 202-MW Sweet Acres Wind Farm.
News item from EDP Renewables North America
