Liberty, part of Algonquin Power & Utilities, has signed a PPA with social media giant Meta for the 112MW Deerfield II wind project in Michigan.
Under the agreement, Meta will offtake 100% of the energy at Deerfield II, building upon the existing renewable energy partnership the companies have at the operating Altavistasolar facility in Virginia.
The Deerfield II wind project is expected to contribute to Liberty’s ESG goals and help Meta continue to support its operations with 100% renewable energy.
The project is expected to achieve commercial operations in 2023 and represents an investment of approximately US$200m (€189.5m) for Liberty.
It is also expected to provide approximately $2m per year in property tax revenue and create 200 temporary and permanent jobs for workers.
Algonquin chief development officer Jeff Norman said: “Wind and solar energy investments are critical streams within our growth program, and we’re very pleased to be able to expand upon our existing partnership with Meta.
“Our company is all about thinking globally and acting locally.
“Projects like Altavista solar and Deerfield II allow us to have that dual-level impact by supporting Meta’s operations with 100% renewable energy while contributing to the surrounding communities.”
Liberty will develop, engineer, construct, own and operate the Deerfield II wind project.
Meta head of renewable energy Urvi Parekh said: “Since 2020, our global operations have been supported by 100% renewable energy and, as we continue to grow, it is increasingly important that we have strong partnerships to bring new renewable energy to the grid.
“We appreciate the work Liberty has done to help us bring these 112 MW to the grid in support of our operations.”