The German group RWE is continuing to develop its energy portfolio in the United States with the construction of nearly 4 gigawatts (3,875 megawatts) of projects combining onshore wind, solar and battery storage systems. In total, 29 construction sites are currently underway across the US, spanning eleven states and generating more than 5,000 jobs in 2024, according to an official press release issued by RWE on June 17. The company states it is strengthening local energy infrastructure while meeting a growing demand for electricity.
Rapid expansion and diversification of the energy mix
RWE ranks as the third largest producer of renewable energy in the United States, with an investment strategy focused on diversifying sources and ensuring supply security. According to Andrew Flanagan, Chief Executive Officer of RWE Clean Energy, the new projects under construction will provide competitive and reliable electricity nationwide. The work includes major projects in strategic regions, supporting the integration of additional generation capacity into several local grids.
The company has highlighted four flagship projects illustrating this dynamic. Baron Winds II, in the State of New York, will add 117 megawatts to an existing complex, with a fiscal impact assessed at $24mn to benefit local communities. In Tennessee, the WR Graceland solar plant, with a capacity of 150 megawatts, will supply energy to more than 24,000 households and generate $20mn in tax revenues for Shelby County.
Impact on employment and regional economies
RWE’s local investments translate into the creation of several thousand jobs, in partnership with US companies and apprenticeship programmes aimed at training a skilled workforce. Ventasso, a 50-megawatt battery storage project near San Diego, uses 33 outdoor containers and aims to enhance grid stability during periods of high demand. According to the figures provided, this site will deliver $300,000 in benefits for local schools.
Other projects under construction include Arlington Valley in Arizona, which will add 125 megawatts of solar capacity and power 27,000 households each year. This site generated about 200 jobs during the construction phase and will provide $10mn in tax revenues over its lifetime.
Industrial outlook and strengthening of the supply chain
Almost all the equipment destined for these new sites is sourced from the US industrial sector, according to RWE, which highlights the contribution of contracts with local manufacturers and service providers. This approach allows the operator to support the national industry while accelerating the modernisation of the energy sector. The 29 ongoing projects illustrate the extent of industrial and institutional mobilisation to increase the share of energy produced locally in the United States.
