The energy will come from the repowering project'Leaning Juniper IIB' in the county of Gilliam, Oregon, and will supply Google's data centers in The dalles.
The project 'Leaning Juniper IIB' will undergo a substantial modernization, with the replacement of existing components with state-of-the-art equipment. This upgrade will not only extend the facility's lifespan but also improve its efficiency and increase its energy production capacity. It is estimated that, once completed, 'Leaning Juniper IIB' will generate enough electricity to power approximately 31,000 U.S. homes annually.
The delivery of this power to Google's data centers in The Dalles will be managed by the Northern Wasco County Township Utility District. Google, which established its first data center in The Dalles in 2006, has significantly expanded its presence in the region, using these facilities to power Google Cloud, innovations in artificial intelligence, and a variety of digital products and services such as Search, Maps, and Workspace.
Economic and Community Impact
This initiative represents an investment of approximately €170 million ($200 million) in north-central Oregon. The construction phase is projected to generate 150 jobs, predominantly with local unionized labor.
avangrid, with more than 15 years of presence in Gilliam County, is strengthening its commitment to the community. The project is expected to contribute approximately €17 million ($20 million) in taxes over its lifespan, funds that will be allocated to public services, with a particular emphasis on education. This includes a Strategic Investment Program (SIP) agreement with Gilliam County, which will guarantee Local Improvement Payments totaling €2.3 million ($2.8 million) over the next decade.
The Leaning Juniper II wind farm, built in 2010, has paid nearly €12.7 million (US$15 million) in property taxes since its commissioning. Additionally, through Avangrid's community sponsorship program, Leaning Juniper II has actively supported local libraries, preschools, and fire departments, demonstrating the company's positive impact on the region.
Avangrid currently owns and operates approximately 2.5 GW of power generation capacity in Oregon, employing approximately 375 people in the state, both in field operations and at its corporate office in Portland.
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