Leeward Renewable Energy Invests $1.5 Billion in 725 MW Oklahoma Solar Portfolio

Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE), a US renewable energy developer, announced that it is investing $1.5 billion in a 725 MW solar energy portfolio in Oklahoma. The company stated that this investment will make a significant contribution to Oklahoma's energy future and provide the necessary energy resources to support long-term economic growth.

LRE CEO Jason Allen said, "This portfolio demonstrates a significant investment in Oklahoma's energy future and will provide the necessary energy resources to support long-term economic growth. By working closely with local communities, landowners, public services, customers, and development partners, we are helping to strengthen grid reliability, support ongoing investment, and build a stronger energy future for the region."

The company introduced the Mayes County Solar Portfolio, which consists of the Salt Branch Solar, Huckleberry Solar, and Mayes Solar projects. The Twelvemile Solar 1 & 2 projects are located in nearby Bryan County, while the Twelvemile Solar 3 project is located in Johnston County.

LRE stated that the Salt Branch Solar 1 & 2, Huckleberry Solar, Mayes Solar, and Twelvemile Solar 1 & 2 projects will support Google's operations in Oklahoma and provide the necessary energy for the region's ongoing development. The company said that these projects are focused on providing infrastructure near areas with growing energy demand.

Google Data Center Operations Lead for Oklahoma and Missouri JT Tolliver said, "Google is focused on growing by supporting our neighbors and strengthening the electricity grid. This new agreement with LRE will help increase energy production in Oklahoma and provide a stronger, more affordable, and more reliable energy system for the entire region."

The Mayes Solar and Salt Branch Solar 1 projects will provide electricity to the Grand River Dam Authority under a fixed transmission service agreement. The Salt Branch 2 and Huckleberry projects will provide electricity to American Electric Power (AEP). The Twelvemile Solar 1 & 2 projects will provide electricity to Oklahoma Gas & Electric under a fixed transmission service agreement.

LRE said that the Oklahoma projects will support over 2,000 construction jobs in total and generate approximately $148.8 million in state and local tax revenue over their operational lifetime. The company also stated that the projects will feature "native and naturally pollinated bee-friendly vegetation" and support habitat restoration, soil health, and long-term ecosystem resilience.

LRE said that it is working in partnership with Red River Renewable Energy, which is a joint venture between SunChase Power and Eolian. The company stated that Red River began working on the projects over a decade ago and signed power purchase agreements with Google, while LRE acquired the solar portfolios in separate transactions in 2024.

Eolian CEO Aaron Zubaty said, "We are proud to see these projects reach significant milestones."

Source: POWER Magazine