Microsoft Corp. and Invenergy have signed off on a partnership to develop a 74MW PV project in North Carolina. Once completed, the installation will provide clean energy to Microsoft, along with economic investment and jobs for Beaufort County within the state.
The Wilkinson Solar Energy Center project will be constructed, owned and operated by Invenergy, while a 15-year power purchase agreement will allow Microsoft to be the sole offtaker of the energy generated at the site. This stands as Microsoft's fourth power purchase agreement in the PJM Interconnection and will bring Microsoft's total renewable energy portfolio to more than 1.3GW.
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The PV project is scheduled to begin commercial operation in 2019 and is estimated to create more than 500 jobs during construction. It is expected to generate US$20 million in local economic investment through tax payments, landowner lease payments, and wages and benefits for its employees.
Brian Janous, Microsoft's general manager of energy and sustainability, said: “When we invest in renewable energy, we are investing in the future — enabling sustainable growth of our business, of the clean energy sector and the local communities that benefit economically from Microsoft's commitment to sustainability. Our work with companies like Invenergy is an integral step toward our goal of enabling a clean energy future for everyone. We are pleased our partnership will bring new solar resources to the PJM region.”