RWE has entered a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian, securing clean energy from the 127 MW Champion Wind facility in West Texas to support Rivian's fast-charging network with 100% renewable power.
Located in Nolan and Mitchell counties, Champion Wind is undergoing extensive upgrades to install new turbine nacelles and blades, extending the facility's operational life. The project is set for completion by mid-2025.
“RWE continues to pursue commercial opportunities to partner with leading innovative companies like Rivian to help decarbonize the grid,” said Andrew Flanagan, CEO of RWE Clean Energy. Rivian's Vice President Paul Frey added that Champion Wind enables Rivian drivers “to become active participants in building a cleaner grid every time they charge their vehicle.”
Originally commissioned in 2008, Champion Wind is undergoing its repowering phase, with Siemens Gamesa supplying 41 new turbines and components.
RWE has partnered with MA Mortenson Company to manage construction, while decommissioned blades are being recycled by Iowa-based REGEN Fiber, which repurposes them as reinforcement fibers for the construction industry.
