Meta Strengthens Renewable Energy Commitment with New PPA
Meta has entered into a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with US-based renewable energy developer Longroad Energy. The agreement secures 100 percent of the output from Longroad’s 300MWac (400MWdc) ‘1000 Mile’ solar project in Yoakum County, Texas. This partnership reinforces Meta’s commitment to aligning its energy usage with renewable sources.
Urvi Parekh, head of energy at Meta, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “The renewable energy from this project will support our data center operations, as well as our ongoing efforts to match our electricity usage with 100 percent clean and renewable energy.”
About the 1000 Mile Solar Project
A Landmark Renewable Energy Initiative
The 1000 Mile solar project, situated in Yoakum County, Texas, represents Longroad Energy’s largest solar venture to date. Once operational, it will contribute significantly to the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) grid, which services much of the central US, including northern Texas. The project is expected to commence commercial operations in 2026.
Longroad’s Expansion into the SPP Grid
This is Longroad’s first project within the SPP footprint, a grid that spans 14 states. By integrating this project into the SPP, Longroad enhances its ability to provide renewable energy solutions on a broader scale.
The Meta and Longroad Energy Partnership
A Growing Collaboration
The 1000 Mile project adds to the growing portfolio of collaborations between Meta and Longroad Energy. Paul Gaynor, CEO of Longroad Energy, highlighted this ongoing partnership: “With the addition of 1000 Mile, Longroad and Meta will have worked together on more than 1.3GW of projects.”
Previous Projects
Meta’s investment in renewable energy with Longroad dates back to 2019 when the company, then known as Facebook, invested $416 million in the 379MW Prospero Solar project in Andrews County, Texas. That project began commercial operations in 2020, marking a significant milestone in their shared journey toward sustainable energy.
Meta’s Broader Renewable Energy Strategy
Recent Agreements in Texas
This new PPA is Meta’s second renewable energy agreement in Texas in 2024. In November, the company signed an Environmental Attributes Purchase Agreement with Engie North America to secure 260MW from the Sypert Branch solar project in Milam County, Texas. These agreements underscore Meta’s strategic focus on the Texan market for renewable energy.
Expanding Renewable Energy Portfolio
Meta’s renewable energy efforts extend beyond Texas. In 2024, the company entered into PPAs across Indiana, Illinois, Arkansas, and Louisiana, securing over 1.2GW of contracted power. These initiatives illustrate Meta’s commitment to scaling its renewable energy footprint nationwide.
Impact on Data Center Operations
Supporting Data Centers in Texas
Meta operates two data centers in Texas, located in Temple and Fort Worth. The renewable energy generated by the 1000 Mile solar project will directly support these facilities, ensuring they operate sustainably and align with Meta’s clean energy goals.
Aligning Operations with Sustainability Goals
The renewable energy initiatives reflect Meta’s broader strategy to align its global operations with sustainability benchmarks. The company’s commitment to achieving 100 percent renewable energy usage has been a cornerstone of its operational strategy in recent years.
FAQ Section
1. What is the capacity of the 1000 Mile solar project?
The project has a capacity of 300MWac (400MWdc).
2. When will the 1000 Mile solar project become operational?
The project is expected to reach commercial operations in 2026.
3. How does this PPA benefit Meta’s data center operations?
The energy generated will supply Meta’s data centers in Texas, helping the company meet its sustainability goals.
4. What other renewable projects has Meta invested in?
Meta’s investments include the Prospero Solar project in Texas and recent agreements across Indiana, Illinois, Arkansas, and Louisiana.
5. What is the significance of the Southwest Power Pool grid?
The SPP grid spans 14 states and supplies power to much of the central US, including Meta’s data centers in Texas.
