RWE and Google have entered into a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) for the total output of the 155-megawatt (MWac) Crooked Creek Solar project. Located in McCurtain County, Oklahoma, this project represents RWE's first solar venture in the state. The deal is designed to support Google's expanding infrastructure within the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) market while providing affordable, locally sourced electricity to the regional grid.
RWE and Google Crooked Creek Solar Agreement
The agreement secures the entire generation capacity of the 155 MWac Crooked Creek Solar facility for a 15-year term. RWE intends to commence onsite construction later this year, with the project slated to reach commercial operation in 2028. This development is a strategic component of RWE's growing Oklahoma portfolio, which already includes the 148 MW Boiling Springs wind project and an additional 1.6 GW of power projects currently in development across the state. By securing the total output, Google ensures a dedicated supply of renewable energy to power its operations within the SPP region, directly addressing the increasing energy demands of its growing digital and physical infrastructure.
Economic and Grid Implications for Oklahoma
The Crooked Creek Solar project is positioned to deliver significant localized economic impact. During the construction phase, the project is expected to generate approximately $24.3 million in local economic activity and $1.4 million in state and local tax revenue. At its peak, construction is projected to employ up to 250 workers. Once operational, the facility will provide an estimated $25 million in long-term revenue for McCurtain County, supporting essential services such as the Broken Bow School District, local emergency medical services, and regional technology education centers. For the broader energy sector, this project signals the continued integration of large-scale renewable assets into the SPP to bolster grid stability and provide reliable, domestically produced power for major industrial users.
Key Takeaways
- Google will purchase the total output of the 155 MWac Crooked Creek Solar project via a 15-year PPA.
- Construction is scheduled to begin later this year, with commercial operations expected to commence in 2028.
- The project is estimated to generate $25 million for McCurtain County programs and local services once operational.
EnergyInsyte's Take
In our view, this agreement underscores a critical trend: hyperscalers are increasingly moving toward long-term, localized PPAs to de-risk their energy procurement within specific grid markets like the SPP. By securing the total output of a 155 MWac facility, Google is not just buying green attributes; it is actively participating in the regional capacity build-out. For developers like RWE, these high-certainty, long-term off-take agreements are essential for de-risking capital deployment in new geographic territories like Oklahoma.
Questions & Answers
How does this PPA impact Google's operational footprint in the Southwest Power Pool?
The agreement provides Google with a dedicated, 15-year supply of renewable energy specifically to power its operations within the SPP market, helping to manage the energy requirements of its expanding infrastructure.
What are the projected economic contributions of the Crooked Creek Solar project to McCurtain County?
The project is expected to generate $24.3 million in local economic activity during construction and approximately $25 million in long-term revenue for county programs, including emergency services and local school districts.
What is RWE's broader strategic position in the Oklahoma energy market?
RWE is expanding its presence in Oklahoma through the 155 MW Crooked Creek project, the 148 MW Boiling Springs wind project, and an additional 1.6 GW of power projects currently in the development pipeline.
When is the Crooked Creek Solar project expected to be fully operational?
RWE plans to begin onsite construction later this year, with the project's timeline targeting commercial operation in 2028.
Source: PRNEWSWIRE
