The state’s favorable conditions allow for rapid deployment of solar farms, which can be phased in to provide electricity before full project completion. AES CEO Andrés Gluski highlighted the fast deployment and low-cost electricity of solar power as key factors attracting companies like Meta. The deal is part of Meta's broader strategy to expand its renewable energy portfolio, which already exceeds 12 gigawatts. Tim De Chant, a senior climate reporter at TechCrunch, provides insights into the growing trend of solar energy adoption by major tech companies.
Key takeaways:
- Meta signed a solar deal for 650 megawatts across projects in Kansas and Texas to power its data centers.
- AES is developing the solar projects, with 400 megawatts in Texas and 250 megawatts in Kansas.
- This is Meta's fourth solar deal in Texas this year, with previous deals totaling 1,500 megawatts.
- Texas leads the nation in new solar capacity due to ample sunshine, quick permitting, and speedy grid connections.