Google Secures 12-Year PPA for 435-MW Solar Energy

• Google’s bold 12-year solar partnership powers 56,000 homes, propelling its journey to 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030. Clean energy innovation is here!

Google has signed a 12-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with renewable energy developer energyRe for a 435-MW solar project. The agreement will provide Google with enough electricity and Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) to power approximately 56,000 homes. This partnership underscores Google’s commitment to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy across all its operations by 2030.

The deal, facilitated by LevelTen Energy's Accelerated Process (LEAP), allows for a streamlined clean energy procurement process. Amanda Peterson Corio, Google’s global head of data center energy, highlighted the efficiency of this collaboration in contributing to clean energy supply for the Southwest Power Pool grid system. EnergyRe currently has 1,520 MW DC of contracted solar and 398 MWh of battery storage assets in the U.S.

What impact will Google's solar PPA have on renewable energy commitment and local homes?

Enhancement of Local Renewable Energy Supply:

• The solar PPA is expected to significantly increase the availability of renewable energy in the region. By integrating a largescale solar project into the local grid, it can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, thereby contributing to cleaner air and healthier communities.

Creation of Local Jobs:

• The construction and ongoing maintenance of the solar project will likely generate numerous jobs in the local area. This includes roles in installation, engineering, project management, and service maintenance, fostering economic growth within the community.

Boost to Local Economy:

• The PPA not only creates jobs but can also bolster the local economy by increasing demand for materials and services related to the solar project. Local businesses may see a boost from the influx of workers needing housing, food services, and other amenities during construction.

Increased Energy Resilience:

• By investing in solar energy, local homes will benefit from a more resilient energy infrastructure. The diversification of energy sources through renewables can help mitigate the impacts of outages or fluctuations in energy availability caused by market changes or extreme weather events.

Encouragement of Sustainable Practices among Residents:

• Google’s commitment to renewable energy through this PPA sets a precedent that may encourage local homeowners to invest in their own renewable energy solutions, such as rooftop solar panels. This could lead to a broader cultural shift towards sustainability.

Potential Reduction in Energy Costs:

• As more renewable energy sources, like solar, are introduced to the local energy mix, there may be a downward pressure on energy prices. This could result in lower utility bills for local households, making energy more affordable.

Contribution to Climate Goals:

• By providing sufficient energy for about 56,000 homes through renewable sources, the PPA aligns with broader climate goals aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This could serve as a model for other corporations to follow, amplifying overall efforts for a sustainable future.

Encouragement of Corporate Responsibility:

• Google’s PPA showcases a model of corporate responsibility towards environmental stewardship. This commitment can inspire other businesses to explore similar agreements, thus amplifying the demand for renewable energy projects and incentivizing further investment in clean technology.

Improvement of Public Perception of Renewable Energy:

• The visibility of a major tech company like Google investing heavily in renewables can help change public perception regarding the viability of solar energy. This may lead to increased acceptance and support for renewable initiatives from local residents and stakeholders.

Strengthening of Regional Energy Policies:

• This largescale commitment from a significant corporate player may influence local government and policymakers to prioritize renewable energy initiatives and supportive infrastructure, creating a more favorable environment for future renewable projects.