Avangrid, Inc., a leading energy company and part of the Iberdrola Group, has signed a new Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Microsoft for its Bluebird Solar project in Klickitat County, Washington. The agreement marks another milestone in the growing partnership between the two companies and highlights the increasing role of renewable energy in meeting the electricity needs of major technology firms.T
he Bluebird Solar project will have a capacity of 140 megawatts direct current (MWdc), equivalent to 100 megawatts alternating current (MWac). Once operational, the facility will generate clean electricity to help support Microsoft’s sustainability and energy requirements. With the addition of Bluebird Solar, the total renewable energy capacity contracted between Avangrid and Microsoft in the United States now exceeds 500 megawatts.
The agreement reflects the continued growth in demand for renewable energy from large technology companies. As businesses expand their digital infrastructure, data centres, cloud computing services, and artificial intelligence operations, their electricity requirements are increasing significantly. Long-term power purchase agreements allow companies such as Microsoft to secure reliable sources of clean energy while advancing their environmental and decarbonisation goals.
According to Avangrid Chief Executive Officer Jose Antonio Miranda, the Bluebird Solar project strengthens the company’s long-standing commitment to energy development in Washington State while delivering economic benefits to local communities. He noted that the agreement builds on the successful relationship between Avangrid and Microsoft and demonstrates the company’s ability to develop renewable energy projects that support growing energy demand from leading technology companies.
Bluebird Solar is the fourth renewable energy project developed under agreements between Avangrid and Microsoft. The two companies previously signed power purchase agreements for the Powell Creek Solar project in Ohio and the Camino Solar project in California. Both projects entered commercial operation in 2025 and are currently supplying renewable electricity.
In addition, the Juniper Canyon Wind project in Washington is expected to begin commercial operations later this year, further strengthening the renewable energy partnership between the companies. Beyond its environmental benefits, the Bluebird Solar project is expected to deliver substantial economic value to the local community. During the construction phase, the project is expected to create approximately 300 jobs.
Most of these positions are anticipated to be filled by local union workers, providing employment opportunities and supporting regional economic activity. Once construction is complete, the facility will continue to generate economic benefits through several permanent operations and maintenance positions.The project is also expected to contribute significantly to local government revenues. Over its operational lifetime, Bluebird Solar is projected to generate approximately $11 million in property tax payments.
These funds can help support essential public services, infrastructure improvements, educational programmes, and other community initiatives in Klickitat County.Avangrid expects the Bluebird Solar facility to enter commercial operation in 2028. The project represents an investment of approximately $300 million and further expands the company’s renewable energy presence in the region.The project is strategically located near four other energy facilities that are already owned and operated by Avangrid in Klickitat County.
This concentration of renewable energy infrastructure demonstrates the company’s long-term commitment to the area and its role in supporting Washington State’s clean energy transition.The name “Bluebird” was chosen as a tribute to the local environment and wildlife. The region is home to thousands of bluebirds, and the nearby town of Bickleton is widely known as the “Bluebird Capital of the World.”
By adopting this name, the project reflects a connection to the community and the natural landscape where it will operate.The announcement comes as renewable energy development continues to accelerate across the United States. Growing electricity demand from industries such as technology, manufacturing, and data services is increasing the need for new energy generation capacity. Solar and wind projects are playing an increasingly important role in meeting this demand while helping businesses and communities reduce carbon emissions.
Avangrid has established itself as one of the leading renewable energy developers and operators in the United States. The company currently operates more than 11 gigawatts of installed capacity across a portfolio spanning 25 states. Its portfolio includes nearly 100 energy projects, ranging from solar and wind farms to other clean energy facilities that support the country’s transition toward a more sustainable energy future.
The Bluebird Solar agreement further strengthens Avangrid’s partnership with Microsoft while supporting economic growth, job creation, and renewable energy expansion in Washington. Once operational, the project will contribute clean electricity to the grid, support Microsoft’s sustainability commitments, and provide long-term benefits for the local community and regional economy.
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