Avangrid Inc. has officially launched its True North Solar project in Falls County, Texas, marking a significant step in enhancing U.S. energy production and supporting data centers in the region.
Pedro Azagra, CEO of Avangrid, highlighted the importance of such projects in meeting the growing energy demands. “With the rapid expansion of data centers, which will greatly increase energy needs, projects like True North are vital for ensuring the Texas grid remains resilient and reliable,” he said. “Moreover, this project represents a new, locally produced source of energy that will support Texas’ economy for many years.”
The True North Solar project, the largest solar initiative by Avangrid to date, has a capacity of 238 MW AC and 321 MW DC. The project is made up of 488,000 solar panels and helps power the Texas grid while also supporting Meta’s operations, including a new data center near Temple, Texas. Meta’s upcoming facility will be its second in the state.
A recent U.S. Department of Energy report forecasts that by 2028, data centers could account for 12% of U.S. electricity consumption—about three times the level seen last year. This growing demand makes projects like True North crucial in maintaining grid stability and providing reliable power to both homes and businesses.
The project created approximately 300 jobs during its peak construction phase, with many workers hailing from the surrounding area. It also represents a $369 million investment in Central Texas and is expected to generate over $40 million in property taxes throughout its lifespan, benefiting public services in Falls County and nearby communities, particularly schools.
In addition to the jobs created during construction, True North will provide permanent, full-time employment for the ongoing operation of the facility. Avangrid collaborated with Array Technologies, based in New Mexico, to supply the solar trackers, and worked with Black & Veatch, an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firm, for the design and development of the project.
