The Bayou Galion Solar Project, a 127 megawatt direct current (MWdc) solar power plant, has officially commenced operations in northeast Louisiana. Spread out over nearly 1,080 acres in Morehouse Parish, this huge facility started producing electricity in November 2024. In addition, the facility will provide enough clean energy for over 20,500 homes annually. This is a strong indication of the state’s growing commitment to solar energy.
Recurrent Energy, a subsidiary of Canadian Solar, built the Bayou Galion project. It helps address an escalating need for clean energy, as skyrocketing demand from new local manufacturing and data centers burdens the electricity supply. The construction of the project was completed by Primoris Renewables Energy. They worked with local vendors, putting the community to work during the building process and keeping money circulating in the area.
Project financing amounted to $160 million, with Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) serving as the coordinating lead arranger. This substantial investment underscores the commitment to enhancing the region’s energy infrastructure while creating jobs and driving local economic development.
Ismael Guerrero, CEO of Recurrent Energy, underlined the project’s importance in a statement.
“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.” – Ismael Guerrero, Recurrent Energy CEO
Local elected officials have written in support of the project, too. Kay King, CEO of Morehouse Economic Development, highlighted the benefits that solar development brings to the community:
“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.” – Kay King, Morehouse Economic Development CEO
The Bayou Galion Solar Project increases energy reliability in Louisiana. It paints a bright picture of the state’s solar investment opportunities. Behind the scenes, the demand for clean energy is hotter than ever. Projects like Bayou Galion are essential as we work to build a more sustainable energy future.