RWE and Google Sign Power Purchase Agreement for Oklahoma Solar Project

RWE AG, a global energy company headquartered in Essen, Germany, has signed a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Google for its 155-megawatt (MWac) Crooked Creek Solar project in McCurtain County, Oklahoma, according to RWE and Google announcements. The agreement, reported by RWE and PR Newswire, will supply Google’s operations in the Southwest Power Pool market (SPP) with electricity generated by the project, which is set to begin commercial operation in 2028. The Crooked Creek Solar project, RWE’s first in Oklahoma, is expected to create up to 250 jobs during peak construction and generate $24.3 million in local economic activity, along with $1.4 million in state and local tax revenue for McCurtain County. Once operational, the facility will provide an estimated $25 million in annual revenue for county programs, including emergency medical services, schools, and technology education centers. Ingmar Ritzenhofen, RWE Americas’ Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the partnership’s role in meeting “affordable, reliable, domestically produced energy” demands. Will Conkling, Google’s Director of Energy and Power, stated the project will “boost the amount of affordable and reliable power supply for Oklahoma and the region.” RWE plans to start onsite construction later this year, with the project aligning with its broader U.S. investment strategy. RWE’s U.S. operations include 13 gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity across 27 states, with plans to invest €17 billion by 2031—nearly half of its global €35 billion target. The company aims to add 9 GW of new generation capacity, increasing its U.S. total to 22 GW by 2031. This includes 1.6 GW of projects under development in Oklahoma, alongside the 148 MW Boiling Springs wind project in Woodward County. The Crooked Creek Solar project underscores RWE’s focus on renewable energy and community engagement. The company has already contributed over $100,000 in donations and sponsorships to McCurtain County, with plans to deepen its local partnerships. RWE’s U.S. portfolio also includes battery storage and flexible gas-fired peaking plants to enhance grid stability. Google’s commitment to the project reflects its broader strategy to secure renewable energy for its infrastructure. The PPA aligns with the tech giant’s goal of supporting a “strong, stable, affordable grid,” as stated by Conkling. RWE’s expansion in Oklahoma follows its 2023 acquisition of a 50% stake in the state’s 148 MW Boiling Springs wind project, part of its investment in U.S. renewable energy. The agreement highlights the growing collaboration between energy firms and tech companies to meet decarbonization targets. RWE’s U.S. presence, which includes 2,000 employees, spans solar, wind, and battery storage projects, with a focus on “responsible development” and “affordable, reliable electricity,” according to RWE Americas’ website. For McCurtain County, the project represents a significant economic boost. RWE’s commitment to Oklahoma extends beyond the Crooked Creek Solar project. The company has also invested in the 148 MW Boiling Springs wind project and is developing six additional power projects across the state. These efforts align with RWE’s global shift toward renewable energy, driven by its 2030 sustainability targets. The PPA with Google marks a pivotal moment for RWE’s U.S. expansion, reinforcing its position as a key player in the country’s energy transition. As the project moves forward, its impact on Oklahoma’s economy and Google’s operations will be closely monitored, with both companies emphasizing the importance of “strategic partnerships” in advancing clean energy goals.