Leeward Renewable Energy has begun construction of the 200-MW Horizon Solar project in the vicinity of Pearsall, Frio County, Texas. The project is expected in commercial operation by 2023’s fourth quarter.
“We are pleased to begin construction at our Horizon Solar project,” says Omar Aboudaher, LRE’s vice president of development. “Today marks another important milestone in the development of the 200-MW Texas solar facility, bringing LRE one step closer to providing clean, renewable energy. We thank the community and officials of Frio County for their support and look forward to a long-term partnership.”
“The Horizon Solar project represents meaningful progress for Frio County,” states Hon. Arnulfo Luna, a Frio County Judge. “The economic impact to our County and schools will make a real difference to our community. We’re proud and excited to welcome Horizon Solar to our community.”
LRE previously announced that Verizon Communications Inc. will enter into four 15-year renewable energy purchase contracts with it. These agreements will allow Verizon to purchase the energy generated from Horizon Solar as well as three other LRE projects. Horizon Solar will also provide reliable and renewable energy to offset the equivalent emissions of over 40,000 Texas households. The project will include components from American-based businesses, including solar modules from First Solar as well as smart solar tracker solutions by NexTracker.
“At Verizon, we are committed to reducing our impact on the planet through proven sustainable and socially responsible strategies and programs,” comments James Gowen, Verizon’s chief sustainability officer and senior vice president of global supply chain. “The latest development in our work with LRE helps build a greener U.S. energy grid, and the Horizon Solar project facility is another key component on our way to achieving net zero emissions in our direct operations by 2035.”
Once completed later next year, Horizon Solar will be LRE’s second operational solar project in Texas where the company is currently operating the 30 MW Barilla Solar project. LRE will have more than 1,200 MW of solar projects contracted in operation by the end of 2023, and approximately 16 GW in development or construction.