Construction has formally begun on the Twelvemile Solar 1 and 2 projects. This momentous undertaking will yield a blazing 152-megawatt, utility-scale, solar PV facility in southern Oklahoma. This initiative takes renewable energy development to the next level. It carries tremendous economic impact for the region.
The Twelvemile Solar projects are expected to produce $29 million in property tax revenue. In addition, state and local governments will enjoy this revenue for the entirety of those projects’ operations lifespan. This revenue will help pay for local community infrastructure and services, making the region’s economic ecosystem even more attractive. Combined at peak construction, the projects will add up to 350 new jobs. This initial project alone will double the size of the local workforce.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
LRE now has a deep solar portfolio in Oklahoma — 724 MW worth. Among these projects are the Twelvemile Solar 1 and 2 solar initiatives. If constructed, these new facilities will be the largest of their kind in the state. Beyond completing projects more efficiently, they will help generate new revenue and produce more economic activity.
Eran Mahrer, LRE’s director and one of the initiative’s founders, stressed that it is these kinds of projects that will help meet America’s increasing energy needs.
“As America’s energy needs grow, projects like Twelvemile 1 and 2 are critical to ensuring reliable, affordable power. This investment not only supports a more resilient grid but also fuels regional growth by creating jobs, attracting businesses and strengthening infrastructure in southern Oklahoma.” – Eran Mahrer
The trip and community benefits will kick in way during the construction phase. Thousands of local residents are projected to gain access to good-paying jobs connected to the project. The long-term benefits are greater economic certainty from new tax revenue and jobs saved once the projects are in service.
Enhancing Energy Reliability
Once completed, the Twelvemile Solar projects will be operational by early 2026. They will improve the reliability and cost-effectiveness of the region’s energy supply. They will ease pressure on the electric grid during the most extreme summer peak-hazard hours where demand often spikes.
Aaron Zubaty stressed the importance of these projects in meeting resource adequacy needs while adapting to growing climate impacts.
“These solar projects will be the largest facilities of their type in Oklahoma […] and will immediately help to reduce strain on the grid during peak summer hours of demand that define resource adequacy requirements.” – Aaron Zubaty
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the resilience of the local energy grid and ensure that it can withstand severe weather events and fuel supply disruptions.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
LRE recently completed PPAs with Google for 700 MW of new solar energy projects. These projects are the Twelvemile Solar 1 and 2, respectively. This partnership is a powerful example of the type of investment in sustainable development and responsible sourcing practices that is needed.
Look Teran Smith underscored the smart planning that went into the project’s design.
“The Mayes and Twelvemile Solar projects are the result of strategic siting and early collaboration. We are proud to see these investments bring long-term benefits to Oklahoma’s communities and electric grid.” – Teran Smith
