EDP Renewables Begins Construction On Meta Backed Solar Project In Arkansas
The 250 MW Cypress Knee Solar facility is scheduled for completion in 2028 and will support Meta's renewable energy procurement goals.
Construction has officially commenced on the 250 MW Cypress Knee Solar project in Chicot County, Arkansas. Developed by EDP Renewables North America, the facility is expected to reach completion by 2028. The project is projected to generate several hundred construction jobs and contribute an estimated $25 million in revenue to the local county over the course of its operational lifetime.
Meta has entered into a long-term power purchase agreement to acquire the electricity generated by the solar farm. This initiative aligns with the company's commitment to match its annual electricity consumption with renewable energy generation. The Cypress Knee project represents the third clean-energy agreement between Meta and EDP Renewables North America, bringing their combined total capacity to 545 MW.
Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDP Renewables North America, stated that the project is intended to enhance grid reliability while providing economic benefits to the host community. During the development phase, the company has already provided over $77,000 in local support, including funding for a school greenhouse, a robotics team, and a food pantry.
While Meta continues to pursue renewable energy contracts, the company is also supporting the development of new natural gas plants to address increasing power demands at its data centers. The partnership between the developer and the technology firm was initially announced in May.
