In a significant move towards bolstering its commitment to clean energy, Walmart has entered a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with EDP Renewables North America for a portion of a 180-megawatt (MWac) solar project in Texas.
Under the terms of the agreement, Walmart will serve as an offtaker for 162 MWac, complementing its existing procurement from EDPR NA projects which includes 233 MWac of utility-scale solar and wind energy, along with 36 MWac of distributed solar.
This new project is projected to power the equivalent of over 27,000 homes annually in Texas. The project is expected to deliver substantial economic benefits. This includes millions of dollars in payments to landowners, with an estimated additional $42 million to be contributed to local governments over the operational life of the project.
Moreover, the project has already begun giving back to the community, with a $10,000 donation to a local school district near the site.
The collaboration between Walmart, local business owners, landowners, and community members is poised to further enhance local investment, supporting various sectors including retail, hospitality, and construction-related businesses. The project is also anticipated to create around 300 full-time equivalent jobs during its construction phase and sustain three permanent operational jobs.
Walmart’s involvement in this solar power project aligns with its broader mission to expand its renewable energy capacity. Frank Palladino, Walmart’s VP of Renewable Energy Strategy, emphasized the importance of such projects in driving economic growth and supporting clean energy goals.
Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDP Renewables North America, has lauded Walmart’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community support, highlighting the shared goal of reducing carbon footprint while improving quality of life.
The collaboration between Walmart and EDPR NA is not new. Since 2018, they have been working together on various renewable energy projects, including wind farms in Illinois and Indiana. With this latest agreement, their total utility-scale PPA procurement stands at 395 MW, providing electricity for over 68,000 homes. Additionally, they’ve collaborated on distributed generation arrays, totaling 36 MWac across 66 sites.
EDP Renewables North America, recognized as one of Texas’ leading renewable energy developers and operators, boasts an impressive portfolio in the state. With over 1.2 GW of installed utility-scale renewable capacity, EDPR NA plays a significant role in powering Texan homes and contributing to local economies.
As Walmart continues to push forward with its renewable energy goals, partnerships like these underscore its dedication to sustainability and community development, setting a positive precedent for corporate environmental responsibility.
GreentechLead.com News Desk