Recurrent Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar, has announced the commencement of operations of the Bayou Galion Solar Project, a 127MWdc (megawatts direct current) solar power plant in north-east Louisiana, US.
The project, which occupies roughly 1,080 acres in Morehouse Parish, began generating power in November 2024. It is capable of powering around 20,500 homes annually.
The solar project reflects increasing solar energy investment in Louisiana, fuelled by heightened electricity demand from manufacturing and data centres. By the end of 2024, the cumulative solar investment in Louisiana had reached more than $2bn.
Recurrent Energy CEO Ismael Guerrero said: “The successful completion of Bayou Galion Solar marks a significant milestone for Recurrent Energy – our first project in Louisiana. This $160m investment not only brings clean, reliable power to the region but also drives local economic development, creates jobs and strengthens the state’s energy infrastructure.
“We are honoured by the trust placed in us by Morehouse Parish. Louisiana has long been an energy leader. We look forward to deepening our partnerships as we develop and operate projects across the state.”
The Bayou Galion Solar facility is set to provide a significant source of new tax revenue for the community.
Morehouse Economic Development CEO Kay King said: “Congratulations to Recurrent Energy on the completion of the Bayou Galion Project. Solar development in our parish improves our tax base, adds income to landowners and diversifies our area’s electrical power sources.
“Morehouse Parish supports this development, which is building a foundation for a strong electrical grid system that will power future growth here and across our region.”
The project financing, amounting to $160m, was arranged by Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) as the coordinating lead arranger.
Primoris Renewables Energy completed the project’s construction, leveraging local vendors.
In a related development, Recurrent Energy secured a ten-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with a US technology company in December last year.
This PPA pertains to the Tordesillas solar photovoltaic project in Valladolid, Castilla y León, Spain, which boasts an installed capacity of 300MW.
