EDP ​​Renewables North America opens Pearl River Solar Park in Mississippi

EDP ​​Renewables North America (EDPR NA) recently inaugurated the Pearl River Solar Park in Scott County, Mississippi, marking its entry into the state. The solar park boasts an installed capacity of 210 MWp (175 MWac), which could power more than 27,000 average Mississippi homes per year. The project features 400,000 monofacial and bifacial photovoltaic panels that provide clean, cost-effective energy to the state grid.

In addition to producing energy, Pearl River is expected to provide significant benefits to local communities. Over its life, it will provide more than $50 million in payments to local governments, supporting essential services such as schools, health care facilities and fire departments. The construction phase alone has created hundreds of jobs, with two permanent positions for ongoing maintenance.

From an environmental perspective, Pearl River is expected to save the Mississippi River more than 222 million gallons of water per year and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by replacing fossil fuel-based energy. The project reflects EDPR NA’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement. For example, the development team has actively participated in initiatives such as the Pearl River Clean Sweep and educational programs, demonstrating its commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.

Pearl River represents a milestone in the development of renewable energy in Mississippi. It is the largest solar park in the state, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). EDPR NA’s commitment to Mississippi is set to deepen with the construction of Ragsdale Solar Park in Canton, which will help grow the local economy and advance renewable energy goals.

“Pearl River Solar Park is an important part of the state’s growing clean energy portfolio, and we are proud to have them in Scott County contributing to the region’s economic development. Additionally, the EDPR NA team continues to demonstrate their commitment to cultivating high-impact community relationships,” said former Mississippi Public Utilities Commissioner Brent Bailey.

“We are excited that Pearl River is finally up and running. Solar energy is a win-win for Mississippi because it accelerates the deployment of clean energy on the grid and contributes to the state’s decarbonization goals. The project will begin operations immediately to provide Mississippi with an accessible source of clean energy,” said Sandhya Ganapathy, CEO of EDPR NA.