Lightsource bp and AEP Energy Partners (AEPEP) have entered into a power purchase agreement (PPA) for the 188MW (dc) Honeysuckle Solar power project in Indiana.

AEP Energy Partners is a subsidiary of American Electric Power.

The Honeysuckle Solar power project will be built in New Carlisle, nearly 10 miles west of South Bend. It will generate nearly 200 direct construction jobs, while bringing $250 million of new renewable energy infrastructure to Indiana that is privately funded.

When completed, the Honeysuckle Solar project will produce enough clean electricity each year to provide power to up to 27,000 American homes. Besides, it will offset carbon dioxide emissions by 204,000 metric tons annually.

Greg Hall — American Electric Power Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “AEP Energy Partners is proud to provide customers with integrated, carbon-free energy that fulfills their sustainability goals, delivers long-term price stability, and benefits the environment.

“Our partnership with Lightsource bp demonstrates our commitment to the development of new renewable resources that both empower local communities and support a cleaner, brighter energy future.”

Lightsource bp will finance, construct, and operate the Honeysuckle Solar power project. The company will sell the power generated from the solar power plant to AEP Energy Partners under a long-term PPA.

According to Lightsource bp, construction of the Honeysuckle solar project is underway on-site, and commercial operation is expected to begin in 2024.

Inovateus Solar, which is based in South Bend, is the contractor in charge of the construction of the Honeysuckle project.

Kevin Smith — Lightsource bp Americas CEO said: “This power purchase agreement is a great example of how energy buyers with sustainability goals such as AEP Energy Partners can work with us to spur the buildout of new solar projects that will improve the health and energy security of communities across America while helping strengthen local economies.

“As the owner and operator of the Honeysuckle solar farm, we look forward to bringing economic and environmental benefits to the region, along with fostering community partnerships.”

  AEP Energy Partners, American Electric Power, Greg Hall, Honeysuckle Solar project, Indiana, Inovateus Solar, Kevin Smith, Lightsource bp, Solar industry news, USA