EDP Renewables North America LLC (EDPR NA) has officially inaugurated its Ragsdale Solar Park in Madison County, Mississippi. This 100 MW project, which became operational at the end of Q4 2024, will supply electricity directly to Entergy Mississippi’s grid. This solar park is part of EDPR NA’s commitment to enhancing its presence in the southern United States, while supporting the energy transition on a local and regional scale.
The project was originally launched in 2016 by Acadian Renewable Energy, a joint venture between SunChase Power and Eolian, L.P. After EDPR NA acquired the project in 2022, the company completed its development. Amazon signed a 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) for the entire output of Ragsdale, marking a key collaboration for the retail giant.
Economic Benefits and Local Jobs
Ragsdale Solar Park will generate direct economic benefits for the region. The project is expected to contribute approximately $34.6 million in taxes over its lifespan, helping to fund local public services such as schools and infrastructure. Additionally, more than $15 million will be allocated to local landowners who have agreed to lease their land to host the solar park’s infrastructure.
The project also created over 100 temporary construction jobs and is expected to maintain up to three full-time positions for the long-term operation and maintenance of the park. Beyond direct jobs, Ragsdale is boosting the local economy through increased spending in nearby businesses, such as restaurants and hotels, with total expenditures exceeding $2 million.
Environmental Benefits and Solar Panel Recycling
Environmentally, Ragsdale Solar Park will significantly reduce water usage compared to conventional energy sources. The project is expected to save more than 127 million gallons of water annually, equivalent to the amount conventional power plants would consume to generate a similar amount of energy.
The solar park also plans to recycle its solar panels at the end of their life through the “Close the Loop” program with its partner SOLARCYCLE®, processing approximately 120 tons of damaged or used panels, contributing to a more sustainable approach in the sector.
Commitment to the Community
In addition to its economic and environmental contributions, EDPR NA is committed to strengthening ties with local communities. For example, the company donated a “Jaw of Life” rescue tool to the local fire department and participated in community events such as the Pearl River cleanup and a fishing tournament.
This collaborative approach with local stakeholders, coupled with concrete actions, has been a key factor in the success of the project, as highlighted by Lindsey Launius, Market Strategy Director at Beta Engineering, a partner in developing the project’s technical infrastructure.
Continued Growth for Renewables in Mississippi
The launch of Ragsdale follows the completion of Pearl River Solar Park, another major solar project by the company in the state. The latter, with a capacity of 175 MW, generates enough energy to power 26,000 Mississippi homes and is expected to deliver more than $50 million in tax payments to local communities.
The establishment of large-scale projects like Ragsdale and Pearl River reflects EDPR NA’s commitment to playing a central role in the development of renewable energy in the southern United States, while contributing to a greener and more resilient regional economy.
