Google backs one of the largest solar projects in the US

At the ribbon-cutting event held two hours south of Dallas, Google executive Ben Sloss shared an inspiring vision: Google is committed to not only bringing renewable, carbon-free electricity online but also matching this with operational needs. This approach shows Google's dedication to a sustainable future, with plans to invest $16 billion in clean energy globally by 2040.

U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm highlighted the significance of these efforts, declaring the solar project as a prime example of the administration's dedication to supporting U.S.-based energy projects. She captured the moment by stating, “We are in the middle of history being made.”

SB Energy has created an impressive trio of solar farms, aptly named the “Orion Solar Belt,” in Buckholts, Texas. Together, they will generate 875 megawatts of clean energy, which is comparable to a typical nuclear facility. Google has bigger plans, contracting over 2,800 megawatts of new wind and solar projects in Texas alone, exceeding the power needed for its local operations.

The International Energy Agency projects that data centers’ electricity consumption could more than double by 2026. With buildings and vehicles electrifying globally, people are using more electricity than ever, putting a strain on electric grids worldwide.

Adding to their renewable energy investments, Google announced plans to spend over $1 billion in Texas this year to bolster its cloud and data center infrastructure. About 85% of the solar energy from this project will power data centers in Ellis County and support cloud computing in the Dallas region, while the remainder will benefit the state's electrical grid. In a unique touch, thousands of sheep help maintain the vegetation around the solar arrays.

Reflecting on the project's impact, Sloss conveyed the awe of seeing the solar farm come to life, stating, “You come over the rise, and you see this enormous field of solar arrays, and it kind of takes your breath away. We actually collectively have done this. That is amazing.”

SB Energy proudly noted that most components are manufactured in the U.S., a testament to the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act on clean energy production. This project stands among the first expected to benefit from additional tax credits for using domestic materials.