Oak Trail Solar Project : Leeward Renewable Energy starts construction

Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE), a portfolio company of OMERS Infrastructure, has commenced construction on the 100MW Oak Trail Solar Project near Moyock, North Carolina.

Expected to reach commercial operations by mid-2023, the Oak Trail solar power project will supply the generated electricity to Verizon Communications under a long-term power purchase agreement.

James Gowen — Verizon Communications chief sustainability officer and senior vice president, global supply chain, said: “Verizon is committed to protecting our planet by supporting the production of renewable energy and the transition to a greener U.S. energy grid.

“The renewable energy produced by the Oak Trail Solar project will help us achieve net zero emissions in our operations by 2035.”

Blue Ridge Power is the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor for the Oak Trail Solar Project.

During its construction, the Oak Trail solar plant is expected to provide jobs to approximately 280 people.

The solar power project in North Carolina will feature First Solar photovoltaic solar modules, which are said to use less energy, water, and semiconductor material in their manufacturing.

Sam Mangrum — Leeward Renewable Energy SVP of Project Execution said: “Oak Trail Solar marks another milestone in the growth of LRE’s renewable energy portfolio and is an example of how we manage our projects in alignment with our core values of protecting and respecting the environment and communities in which we operate.

“LRE is focused on creating enduring value with local communities by building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships. We look forward to bringing the project online next year and supporting Verizon’s efforts to meet its net zero operational goal.”