Duke Energy Renewables has secured a 12-year virtual power purchase agreement (PPA) with U.S. telecommunications company Sprint.
The 173.3 MW PPA will enable Sprint to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve approximately 30% renewable energy for its total electricity portfolio.
The power will come from the 182 MW Maryneal Windpower project in Nolan County, Texas. Built, owned and operated by Duke Energy Renewables, the facility will come online in December 2020.
“Sprint is serious about minimizing its carbon impact and operating as a more sustainable company,” says Doug Michelman, chairman of the Sprint Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Sprint. “This wind project will help us make substantial progress towards offsetting the energy we use across our operations, including our headquarters, retail stores, call centers and cell towers.”
The Maryneal project will increase Duke Energy Renewables’ U.S. wind capacity to more than 3 GW. Full notice to proceed with construction will begin in early 2020. During peak construction, the project will create approximately 200 jobs, says Duke Energy.
“Wind power is contributing to a cleaner, stronger U.S. economy, and the Maryneal Windpower project further expands our renewable energy presence in Texas,” says Rob Caldwell, president of Duke Energy Renewables. “We’re excited to work with Sprint to create jobs, strengthen the local economy and generate clean energy.”
Schneider Electric Energy and Sustainability Services advised Sprint on the Maryneal PPA, supporting project selection and negotiations.
Nordex Acciona will supply 38 4.8 MW wind turbines for the site, and Wanzek Construction is the contractor.
