On November 27, 2024, Entergy Louisiana and D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments (DESRI) announced the commencement of commercial operations at Sunlight Road Solar, situated in Washington Parish, Louisiana. This 50-MW solar facility in Franklinton, developed and constructed by DESRI, will supply electricity to Entergy Louisiana’s grid through a 20-year power purchase agreement.
With over 100,000 photovoltaic panels, Sunlight Road Solar is expected to generate enough energy to power approximately 11,500 homes, contributing to the growing demand for renewable energy in Louisiana.
Entergy Louisiana’s President and CEO, Phillip May, expressed his excitement about this milestone, stating that it signifies a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for the state. He added that this achievement goes beyond just adding solar power to their portfolio; it is about providing affordable, reliable, and clean energy to their customers. May also highlighted the company’s commitment to meeting the increasing demand for renewables and working towards a net-zero future.
The Sunlight Road Solar project is estimated to save Entergy Louisiana customers approximately $22 million over the 20-year power purchase agreement. The facility utilizes Nevados single-axis trackers, which allow the solar panels to follow the sun’s movement throughout the day, maximizing energy production.
DESRI’s Chief Development Officer, Hy Martin, expressed their delight in partnering with Entergy to support their customers through the development and construction of another renewable energy project. He also acknowledged the contributions of Sunlight Road Solar’s stakeholders, including Washington Parish, Entergy, landowners, project lenders, Nevados, and Primoris Renewable Energy. Martin added that DESRI is committed to investing in clean and cost-competitive energy, creating opportunities in Louisiana and the broader Gulf Region.
Sunlight Road Solar is the fourth solar resource added to Entergy Louisiana’s grid. The company also plans to bring the nearly 50-MW Sterlington Solar facility online in 2026. This solar facility, owned and operated by Entergy Louisiana, will be located next to the Sterlington Power Station, one of the company’s oldest power plants in north Louisiana. These developments align with Entergy’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
In conclusion, D. E. Shaw Renewable Investments and Entergy Louisiana’s partnership has resulted in the successful completion of Sunlight Road Solar, a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for Louisiana. With more renewable energy projects in the pipeline, Entergy is committed to providing affordable, reliable, and clean energy to its customers while working towards a net-zero future.