Leeward Renewable Energy announced the completion and online operation of its 179-MW White Wing Ranch solar project in Yuma County, Arizona, enhancing its total operational capacity to over 3.3 GW.
The solar park has secured a long-term power purchase agreement with Verizon Communications Inc, which was first disclosed in 2022.
The project features US-made photovoltaic solar modules from First Solar, marking the first large-scale implementation of the manufacturer's Series 7 technology.
Located on privately-owned land, White Wing Ranch will connect to the bulk grid via the 500-kV Hoodoo Wash Switchyard. This project is the first of several that Leeward plans to develop in Yuma County.
Leeward, backed by OMERS Infrastructure, has set a goal of reaching 10 GW of operational assets by 2028. Jason Allen, CEO of Leeward Renewable Energy, expressed satisfaction with the project's launch, stating, “We are pleased to begin operations at White Wing Ranch and support Verizon's sustainability goals. We are excited for the future of renewable energy in the region and are committed to contributing meaningfully to the community throughout the lifespan of the project.”
Verizon's Senior Vice President, James Gowen, reiterated the company's dedication to transitioning to a greener energy grid, stating, “White Wing Ranch is another example of our commitment to powering our operations with clean, renewable energy.”
