EDP Renewables Begins Construction of Meta-Backed 250 MW Cypress Knee Solar Project in Arkansas, US

EDP Renewables North America has begun construction on Cypress Knee Solar, a 250 megawatt solar facility in Chicot County, Arkansas.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held on November 4, 2026, with the company expecting the project to reach completion by 2028.

Construction Launch Anchored by Corporate Power Deal

The development is underpinned by a long-term power purchase agreement with Meta, an arrangement that supports the social media company's stated goal of matching 100% of its annual electricity consumption with clean and renewable energy generation.

Once the facility is operational, EDPR NA expects it to deliver new power generation to the grid while contributing to economic growth in the region.

Local Revenue and Employment Outlook

According to the company, Cypress Knee Solar is projected to bring roughly USD 25 million in new revenue to Chicot County over the course of its operating life. During peak construction, the site is expected to employ several hundred workers, creating openings for local labor, contractors, and suppliers.

After the solar park enters service, the tax revenue it generates is expected to provide funding for schools, infrastructure improvements, emergency services, and other community needs across the county, EDPR NA states.

Executive Commentary

Sandhya Ganapathy, chief executive officer of EDP Renewables North America, addressed the significance of the occasion at the groundbreaking.

"Breaking ground at Cypress Knee Solar marks an important milestone for the project and for Arkansas' growing role in America's energy future," she said.

"As energy demand continues to rise, projects like Cypress Knee Solar help strengthen grid reliability while creating jobs, generating meaningful local revenue, and delivering long-term benefits to the communities that host them. We are proud to partner with Meta and local stakeholders to advance new energy infrastructure that supports economic growth and American energy independence."

Funds Already Directed to County Organizations

Even before construction began, EDPR NA directed more than USD 77,000 in contributions to organizations and programs within Chicot County during the development phase.

Recipients included the restoration effort for the Lakeside High School greenhouse, the Lakeside Robotics team, and the Lake Village food pantry.

Company Background and North American Footprint

EDP Renewables North America LLC, together with its affiliates and subsidiaries, develops, constructs, owns, and operates wind farms, solar parks, and energy storage systems across North America. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company operates eight regional offices throughout the continent.

The company's existing portfolio comprises 61 wind farms, 29 solar parks, and four energy storage sites. To date, EDPR NA has developed more than 12,900 MW and currently operates more than 12,300 MW of onshore utility-scale renewable energy capacity.

The company's workforce exceeds 1,000 employees. Media inquiries on behalf of the company are managed by Amy Varghese of EDP Renewables North America.