Avangrid contributes to the US energy transition with new giant solar projects

 

The energy Iberdrola, through its subsidiary avangrid, has taken an important step in its commitment to clean energy in United States with the launch of its largest photovoltaic plant in the country, True North Solar, located in Texas. In addition, the company has begun injecting energy into the grid from its solar farms. Camino, in California, and Powell Creek, in OhioThese initiatives not only strengthen the energy supply, but also boost the local economy and contribute to the country's energy independence.

 

Plant True North SolarWith more than 488.000 solar panels and a capacity of 321 MW, Texas has the capacity to power approximately 60.000 American homes, a figure comparable to a city like Badajoz. This project, which required an investment of $369 million (more than €340 million), has generated 300 jobs during its construction phase, primarily benefiting local residents and consolidating Texas as a leader in renewable energy production in the country.

 

In California, the Camino solar farm, with 105.000 panels, will begin commercial operation later this spring. With an investment of $100 million (more than €90 million), this project will provide clean energy to 14.000 homes, a demand similar to that of San Javier (Murcia), and has created 100 jobs, also with a strong local component.

 

Meanwhile, in Ohio, the Powell Creek plant, with 300.000 panels and 200 MW of capacity, is already supplying reliable energy to 30.000 homes, a figure comparable to the population of Ciudad Real. This is Iberdrola's second project in the state, following the construction of Blue Creek in 2012, which currently generates enough energy for approximately 76.000 homes per year.

 

The construction of these projects has had the participation of American companies, driving the country's economic growth. Furthermore, these solar farms have generated significant tax revenue for the states where they are located: Camino Solar has contributed $15 million in state taxes (around €14 million), Powell Creek $31 million (more than €27 million), and True North Solar more than $40 million (more than €37 million). These funds are used to improve public services and support local communities, especially educational centers.

 

A concrete example of this positive impact is True North Solar's contribution to the purchase of STEM learning materials, teacher resources, school buses, and renovated athletic facilities, thereby improving community well-being.

 

Texas consolidates its position as a renewable energy powerhouse

 

Avangrid has more than 15 years of experience in Texas. With the entry into operation of True North, the company now has seven projects in the state, reaching a combined installed capacity of nearly 1,6 GW. The company's total investment in Texas projects amounts to $2.000 billion (more than €1.850 billion), generating 65 full-time jobs and contributing $118 million (approximately €110 million) in taxes since 2009, which has significantly improved public services for the state's residents.

 

True North Solar, in addition to supplying power to the Texan networksupports the operations of Meta, with whom Iberdrola has signed a long-term power purchase agreement. The plant will also supply power to Meta's future data center in Temple, Texas.

 

According to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Energy, the country's energy consumption is projected to increase by 12% by 2028 due to the growth of data centers, tripling the 2024 levels. In this context, projects like True North Solar are essential to support this growing demand, while ensuring a supply of clean, reliable, and locally sourced energy for homes and businesses.