Google and EDP Renewables (EDPR), through EDPR NA Distributed Generation (EDPR NA DG), the distributed solar generation business unit of EDP Renewables North America, signed a framework agreement targeting the development and installation of more than 80 distributed solar PV projects with around 650 MWp (500 MWac). This is the largest corporate sponsorship for distributed generation signed between two companies in the United States, according to S&P Global and BloombergNEF (BNEF) data, in what can also become the biggest distributed generation deal closed by EDPR with a client to date.

The first solar projects will begin development in Ohio, where Google operates a data center campus in New Albany and a Google Cloud region in Columbus. According to EDPR, the projects will extend to a total of six US States. EDPR NA DG will be responsible for the development, construction, and operation of the solar PV parks, with the first projects being targeted to be operational by the end of 2024.

The portfolio will also be partially funded by Google's acquisition of Impact Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), an instrument that certifies that a given buyer has the rights to the environmental and social benefits of the renewable electricity produced by a renewable project.

Background

Google began collaborations with EDPR nearly two years ago to develop a clean energy initiative that promotes energy equity and reduces energy burden under an open book transaction model – the ImpactRec. The agreement aims to democratize access to cleaner energy, making its benefits accessible to underserved communities. These local energy projects will also reduce electricity bills for about 25,000 low-to-moderate income families. The beneficiaries will be identified in due course as the projects are developed.

As with other RECs, ImpactRECs are generated and eligible in the energy market. However, this model which was developed by Google and EDPR NA DG certifies direct investment in local energy communities, solely focused on providing support to low-moderate income families.

“Partnering with EDPR NA DG, we aim to reduce energy burden in the communities where we operate, while progressing toward our 24/7 carbon-free energy goal,” said Sana Ouji, Energy Lead, Google.

“We are pleased to sign this framework agreement that will allow us to develop a substantial number of renewable energy projects, while taking care of underserved communities”, stated Miguel Stilwell d’Andrade, EDP’s CEO.