EDP Renewables North America has broken ground on a 250-megawatt (MW) solar energy project in Chicot County, Arkansas, supported by a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA) with Meta.

The Cypress Knee Solar project is expected to be completed in 2028. Once operational, it will add utility-scale solar generation to the regional grid and support Meta's efforts to match 100% of its annual electricity consumption with renewable energy.

The project comes as electricity demand continues to grow, particularly among large commercial and industrial energy users and data center operators. Long-term PPAs provide companies with a way to secure renewable energy generation while supporting the development of new power projects.

EDP Renewables estimates Cypress Knee Solar will generate approximately $25 million in revenue for Chicot County over the project's lifetime. Construction is expected to support several hundred jobs at its peak, creating opportunities for local workers, contractors and suppliers.

The company also reported contributing more than $77,000 to local community organizations and programs during project development, including support for school programs and a local food pantry.

Houston-based EDP Renewables North America develops, constructs, owns and operates wind, solar and energy storage projects. The company reports having developed more than 12,900 MW of renewable energy capacity across North America.