Meta and renewable energy developer Zelestra have signed a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) for electricity from the 180MWdc Palmera solar project in Texas, expanding a renewable energy partnership that now spans eight projects across the United States.
The agreement increases the total contracted solar capacity between the two companies to approximately 1.4GWdc, according to Zelestra.
The developer said all eight projects covered under the partnership are expected to be operational by 2028.
Texas Project Strengthens Renewable Energy Portfolio
The Palmera solar project is located in Texas and forms part of Meta’s broader strategy to secure renewable energy supplies for its growing operations, including data centers and digital infrastructure.
Amanda Yang, Meta’s Head of Clean and Renewable Energy, said the agreement supports the company’s efforts to add new clean energy generation to the electricity grid.
“Meta is committed to bringing new renewable energy to the grid, and our expanding relationship with Zelestra is helping make that possible at scale.”
“These projects aren’t just advancing our energy goals – they’re creating jobs and delivering long-term value in the communities where they operate and it shows what strong partnerships can achieve.”
Additional Projects Move Into Construction
Alongside the Palmera agreement, Zelestra announced that construction has begun on two additional projects supported by Meta power purchase agreements.
The developments include the 176MWdc Skull Creek Solar Project in Texas and the 200MWdc Reclamation Solar Project in Indiana.
According to the company, the two projects are expected to support approximately 400 jobs during peak construction activity.
The partnership has already delivered its first operational facility, the 81MWdc Jasper County Solar Project in Indiana, which recently entered commercial operation.
Focus on Decarbonization and Economic Development
Phil North, Chief Executive Officer of Zelestra’s U.S. operations, said the partnership continues to advance renewable energy deployment while supporting local economic activity.
“Our partnership with Meta continues to translate ambition into delivery.”
“Together, we are accelerating the delivery of new energy infrastructure that supports Meta’s decarbonization goals while delivering long-term economic value in local communities.”
Meta has been one of the largest corporate buyers of renewable energy globally as it works toward reducing emissions associated with its operations and expanding clean electricity generation capacity.
Contractors Selected for New Projects
Zelestra also announced key contractors for the two projects currently under construction.
McCarthy Building Companies has been selected as engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractor for the Skull Creek project.
Meanwhile, Qcells USA will supply solar modules and provide EPC services for the Reclamation project.
The latest agreement reflects continued growth in corporate renewable energy procurement as technology companies seek long-term access to clean electricity to support increasing energy demand from data centers, cloud computing and artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Source: EnergyMagz