Microsoft Corp. is purchasing Pennsylvania wind energy under a deal with Canadian independent power producer TransAlta Renewables Inc.
TransAlta has revealed Microsoft as the customer of a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) signed earlier this year for the 90 MW Big Level wind facility. The project is now under construction in Hector Township, Pa., and is expected to be operational in the second half of 2019.
“This project advances our North American growth and investment strategy,” notes John Kousinioris, president of TransAlta Renewables. “Microsoft is a leader in procurement of renewable energy and a catalyst for change in how corporate customers can control their energy procurement. We’re pleased to collaborate with them on a project that suits their needs and helps them to achieve their sustainability and carbon-reduction objectives.”
TransAlta Renewables’ U.S. facilities currently include wind and solar in Wyoming, Minnesota and Massachusetts.
The Big Level wind facility represents the third PPA Microsoft has signed in the PJM Interconnection, according to TransAlta. With this deal, Microsoft’s total renewable energy portfolio will rise to more than 1.2 GW, covering six states and three continents.
“Working with companies like TransAlta to bring new projects online, especially wind projects in states outside the Wind Belt, is good for our business, the community and the clean energy economy,” says Brian Janous, general manager of energy and sustainability at Microsoft. “We’re pleased to enter a new state in the PJM region and take another step toward our goal of enabling a clean energy future for everyone.”
