Sprint, Duke Energy Renewables sign agreement for new 182-megawatt wind project in Texas

Sprint and Duke Energy Renewables announced Wednesday a 12-year virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for 173.3 megawatts (MW) of new wind energy.

Duke Energy Renewables, a commercial business unit of Duke Energy, will build, own and operate the 182-MW Maryneal Windpower project in Nolan County, Texas, which will come online in 2020.

“Wind power is contributing to a cleaner, stronger U.S. economy and the Maryneal Windpower project further expands our renewable energy presence in Texas,” Rob Caldwell, president of Duke Energy Renewables, said. “We’re excited to work with Sprint to create jobs, strengthen the local economy, and generate clean energy.”

The agreement will enable Sprint to achieve approximately 30 percent renewable energy for its total electricity portfolio.

“Sprint is serious about minimizing its carbon impact, and operating as a more sustainable company,” Sprint Foundation Chairman Doug Michelman said. “This wind project will help us make substantial progress towards offsetting the energy we use across our operations, including our headquarters, retail stores, call centers, and cell towers.”

Full notice to proceed with construction will begin in early 2020, and the project will be fully operational by December 2020. During peak construction, the project will create approximately 200 jobs.

Wanzek Construction will serve as the project contractor while Nordex Acciona will supply 38 4.8-MW wind turbines for the site. The project increases Duke Energy Renewables’ U.S. wind capacity to more than 3,000 MW.