These projects, expected to generate more than 226GWh of electricity annually, have been developed by EDP Renewables in partnership with an undisclosed company. The emphasis on using clean energy to power data centers and support AI development has driven tech companies to seek out renewable energy sources. For EDP, transitioning to cleaner energy consumption is a priority, and partnerships such as this one are crucial in achieving that goal, according to CEO Miguel Stilwell D’Andrade.
Earlier this year, EDP Renewables and US solar financier and operator Volt Energy Utility began construction on a 100MWac solar project in Illinois. The Hickory solar park will be located near Jerseyville, the state’s largest city, and developers have secured a contract with technology giant Microsoft to sell the project’s energy. Microsoft has committed to acquiring renewable energy credits and electricity produced as part of a PPA for 15 years after operations commence, which are expected to start this year. This partnership marks a significant step towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.