Microsoft Expands Clean Energy With 389MW Solar Power

Microsoft has taken another significant step toward its sustainability goals by securing 389 megawatts (MW) of clean energy through long-term virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) with EDP Renewables North America (EDPR NA). This latest agreement strengthens Microsoft’s commitment to renewable energy while fostering economic growth and environmental justice in communities across Illinois and Texas.

EDPR NA has recently completed three new utility-scale solar projects, adding 400 MW of solar power to the grid. Two of these projects—the Wolf Run Solar Project (140 MW) and the Hickory Solar Project (110 MW)—are located in Southern Illinois and began operations in November 2024. The third, the Cattlemen II Solar Project (150 MW), is situated near Austin, Texas, and started generating electricity in December 2024. Microsoft’s long-term agreements secure nearly all the energy produced by these facilities, bringing the total number of its operational clean energy projects with EDPR NA in the United States to five.

One of the standout aspects of this partnership is the focus on environmental justice. The Hickory Solar Project is operating under an Environmental Justice Power Purchase Agreement (EJ PPA), a framework designed by Microsoft and Volt Energy Utility. This agreement helps fund the Sharing the Power Foundation, an initiative aimed at providing clean energy access, workforce training, and financial assistance to vulnerable communities. By integrating environmental justice into its energy procurement strategy, Microsoft is ensuring that the benefits of renewable energy extend beyond corporate sustainability goals and directly support communities in need.

“These investments ensure renewable energy benefits flow directly into the communities that need them most,” said Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDP Renewables North America. She emphasized that economic growth and clean energy development go hand in hand, a principle that underpins EDPR NA’s expansion in the U.S. renewable energy sector.

Beyond its environmental impact, the expansion of renewable energy through these projects is delivering substantial economic benefits. The Illinois-based solar projects have provided approximately $4.8 million in direct payments to landowners and generated millions in local tax revenue. In addition, the projects created 500 construction jobs, along with five permanent positions for long-term operations and maintenance. Similarly, the Cattlemen II Solar Project in Texas has contributed millions in tax revenue and supported 300 construction jobs, along with several permanent positions. The local economy has also seen a boost, with over $10.4 million spent on nearby businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and service providers that support the construction and operation of these facilities.

Microsoft’s commitment to clean energy procurement is part of a broader corporate strategy aimed at decarbonizing the grid while fostering economic resilience in the regions where its energy projects are located. Kourtney Nelson, Senior Director of Renewable Energy Procurement at Microsoft, highlighted the importance of these initiatives, stating, “It’s exciting when projects achieve commercial operations and begin generating clean energy in support of grid decarbonization. We’re pleased with EDPR NA and Volt Energy Utility’s collaboration on Hickory and its positive community impact.”

These new solar projects not only align with Microsoft’s ambitious sustainability goals but also serve as a model for how corporate clean energy investments can drive long-term economic benefits. As companies increasingly look to transition to renewable energy, initiatives like these demonstrate that environmental responsibility and economic growth can go hand in hand. By securing 389 MW of solar power, Microsoft is reinforcing its role as a leader in the global push for sustainability while ensuring that local communities benefit from the clean energy transition.