Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE) has achieved key milestones in its Big Plain Solar, GSG Wind, and White Wing Ranch Solar projects, marked by the signing of Renewable Energy Purchase Agreements (REPAs) with Verizon Communications Inc. These developments comprise the completion of the 196 MW Big Plain Solar facility in Madison County, Ohio, the repowering of the GSG Wind project in Lee and Lasalle Counties, Illinois, and the commencement of construction at the White Wing Ranch Solar facility in Yuma County, Arizona, anticipated to become operational in the second half of 2024. The GSG Wind project is set to create approximately 180 construction jobs and aims for a December 2023 operational date.
Jason Allen, LRE’s Chief Executive Officer, said,
LRE is thrilled to reach these significant project milestones with Verizon as we continue to develop innovative renewable energy solutions to meet their needs and sustainability goals.
[Source – Business Wire]
Today’s announcement underscores LRE’s unwavering commitment to advancing the energy transition in the U.S. and making a substantial, positive impact in the communities where the company operates, added Jason.
These three renewable energy projects - Big Plain Solar, GSG Wind, and White Wing Ranch Solar - will have a combined capacity of nearly 450 MW, contributing significantly to Verizon's sustainability objectives. Additionally, this aligns with Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC's overarching growth strategy, designed to solidify the company's status as a leading renewable energy provider in the United States. With aspirations to reach approximately 10 gigawatts (GW) of operating and contracted capacity by 2026, this strategic expansion underscores LRE's commitment to environmental sustainability and clean energy solutions.
Each Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE) initiative is thoughtfully tailored to cater to local communities' unique requirements while fostering economic growth and environmental benefits. The commitment to sustainable practices extends beyond power generation. At Big Plain Solar, LRE's collaboration with Clark State College reflects a dedication to preparing the next generation of leaders for careers in the renewable energy industry. At GSG Wind, LRE's environmental commitment is evident in its pledge to recycle or repurpose 100 percent of the decommissioned wind turbine blades. In the case of White Wing Ranch Solar, innovative land management strategies are being pursued to support the renewal of native desert ecosystems, underscoring LRE's dedication to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
About Leeward Renewable Energy
Leeward Renewable Energy is a forward-thinking renewable energy enterprise committed to shaping a sustainable future. With ownership and operation of a diversified portfolio of 26 wind, solar, and energy storage facilities spanning the United States, totaling approximately 2,700 megawatts of generating capacity, LRE is at the forefront of advancing clean energy solutions. Their active engagement in developing and contracting new renewable energy projects underscores their dedication to growth and innovation in the sector. The company embraces a holistic, full-lifecycle approach to project management underpinned by a long-term ownership model and an unwavering culture driven by purpose. This culture is centered on creating value for community partners while safeguarding and enhancing the environment. As a portfolio company of OMERS Infrastructure, an investment arm of OMERS, one of Canada's most extensive defined pension plans with C$127.4 billion in net assets as of June 30, 2023, LRE combines financial strength with a vision for a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape.