Meta and renewable energy developer Zelestra have expanded their clean energy partnership in the United States with a new long-term power purchase agreement for the 180 MWdc Palmera Solar Plant in Texas. This agreement strengthens an existing collaboration that now includes eight solar projects with a total capacity of about 1.4 GWdc.

The latest deal shows the rising demand for solar energy and long-term power purchase agreements as tech companies look for reliable sources of clean energy to support their growing operations. The new project will add more renewable energy to the US grid and help Meta meet its goal of using 100% clean energy for its electricity needs.

New Texas Solar Project Added to Portfolio

The Palmera Solar Plant will be located in Freestone County, Texas. It is the newest project in the companies’ expanding renewable energy portfolio. This project is expected to provide clean electricity to the grid, addressing the rising power demand from data centers, cloud computing services, and artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Corporate buyers are becoming key players in renewable energy markets as electricity demand continues to grow. Long-term power purchase agreements allow companies to lock in renewable energy while supporting new generation capacity and grid improvements.

With the Palmera agreement, Meta and Zelestra now have eight power purchase agreements across the United States. All projects in this partnership are expected to be operational by 2028.

Amanda Yang, Meta’s Head of Clean and Renewable Energy, stated that the company is focused on adding new renewable energy sources while creating job opportunities in local communities through these long-term partnerships.

Construction Progress Across Multiple States

This recent agreement comes after significant progress on several projects already in the works.

Zelestra recently started construction on the 176 MWdc Skull Creek Solar Plant in Anderson County, Texas. The company has also launched the 200 MWdc Reclamation Solar Project in Gibson County, Indiana. Both of these projects are supported by power purchase agreements with Meta.

Additionally, the 81 MWdc Jasper County Solar Project in Indiana has reached full commercial operation, marking the first project completed under the partnership.

According to Zelestra, the Skull Creek and Reclamation projects are expected to support about 400 jobs during peak construction. These developments showcase the economic impact of large-scale renewable energy investments in local communities.

Phil North, CEO of Zelestra US, mentioned that the partnership has quickly progressed from project announcements to actual delivery, referencing the completion of Jasper County and ongoing work at Skull Creek and Reclamation.

Economic Benefits and Local Employment

The Skull Creek Solar Plant is projected to create around 200 jobs during peak construction and generate an estimated $8.2 million in economic impact for Anderson County. The project will use approximately 400,000 bifacial solar modules.

McCarthy Building Companies has been chosen as the lead contractor for the development. Company executives stated that the project will provide local job opportunities while enhancing renewable energy infrastructure in Texas.

The economic benefits go beyond construction jobs. Large-scale solar projects often boost demand for local suppliers, contractors, and service providers, stimulating broader regional economic activity.

Reclaimed Coal Land to Host Indiana Project

The Reclamation Solar Project in Indiana adds an environmental dimension to the partnership. This facility will be built on land previously used for coal mining, turning a former industrial site into a source of renewable energy.

The project is expected to support about 200 construction jobs and will incorporate roughly 325,000 US-made bifacial solar modules.

Beyond generating electricity, the project includes plans for soil restoration, native plant growth, and promoting biodiversity. These efforts aim to enhance environmental conditions on the reclaimed site while aiding long-term land rehabilitation.

Qcells USA Corp. will supply the solar modules and provide engineering, procurement, and construction services for the project.

Growing Importance of Corporate Renewable Procurement

The expanded Meta-Zelestra portfolio reflects a larger shift in corporate energy strategies. As companies face rising electricity demand and climate-related commitments, renewable energy agreements are becoming critical to long-term planning.

For major tech firms, access to reliable clean power is tied to energy security, emissions goals, and infrastructure resilience. Renewable energy procurement is increasingly seen not only as an environmental effort but also as a key business choice.

Zelestra is also growing its presence in the United States, developing an estimated 15 GW renewable energy pipeline across various markets. The company's strategy centers on meeting the energy needs of large customers and hyperscalers.

This partnership highlights how corporate demand can drive renewable energy investment, create jobs, support domestic manufacturing, and facilitate the redevelopment of previously used land. As digital infrastructure expands across the United States, access to reliable clean power will continue to be a top priority for businesses, investors, and policymakers alike.