Avangrid, the clean energy flagship of the Iberdrola Group, just dropped a bombshell. They are taking to SmartestEnergy to jointly provide electricity from two of Granite State wind farms to New Hampshire customers. Under this contract, a total of 72 megawatts (MW) capacity will be installed. Moreover, it’s a smart, strategic play to address the growing demand for clean, reliable energy throughout the region.
Jose Antonio Miranda, the CEO of Avangrid, underscored the importance of this partnership. He highlighted the importance of the company’s commitment to doing a better job first with their existing fleet of energy projects. Both the Lempster and Groton wind projects have a significant positive impact on their local economies. Most importantly, they deliver clean, affordable, reliable electricity to 4 million homes and businesses across the Northeast.
Details of the Wind Projects
Thanks to the local Lempster wind project, which came online in 2008, Sullivan County can already claim a capacity of 24 MW. It paved the way in 2008, when it became New Hampshire’s first commercial-scale wind farm. The Groton wind project, in Grafton County, has a capacity of 48 MW. It opened for service in 2012. Collectively, these projects are the state’s largest ever investment in renewable energy.
In addition, both wind farms have a hugely positive impact on the local economy. They generate an average of ten permanent jobs, primarily related to their operation and maintenance. Plus, they pay a lot back to communities through state and local tax revenues. In 2024 combined, the Lempster and Groton projects made a whopping $1.8 million in taxes. Since inception, their cumulative contributions have surpassed the $30 million mark.
Commitment to Community and Environment
Avangrid’s long-term, community-centered view is focused on making sure that its energy projects have lasting advantages for local communities for decades. Miranda emphasized this commitment, stating,
“We are happy to partner with SmartestEnergy for power from these two energy projects in New Hampshire. At a time when demand for power is growing rapidly, this demonstrates our proactive approach to managing Avangrid’s existing fleet of energy projects to ensure they continue to benefit the community through their lifetime and generate reliable electricity for homes and businesses in the Northeast.”
The deal with SmartestEnergy is about more than supply. It encapsulates our collective optimism about the clean energy transition. Andy Cormie, a representative from SmartestEnergy, commented,
“We are pleased to be partnering with Avangrid on the Lempster and Groton projects. Securing the full offtake from these long-standing New Hampshire wind assets demonstrates the trust and commitment Avangrid has in SmartestEnergy to provide a reliable and competitive route to market for their wind assets. This agreement reflects our continued focus on building strong partnerships that drive long-term value for communities and the clean energy transition.”
Looking Ahead
As Avangrid continues its efforts in renewable energy development, this partnership with SmartestEnergy sets a precedent for future endeavors within the region. The successful collaboration on Lempster and Groton reinforces Avangrid’s mission of providing sustainable energy solutions while contributing positively to local economies.