Power contract signed with Verizon for 152.5MW of solar in Indiana
Lightsource bp signed a power purchase agreement with Verizon for electricity from the Bellflower solar farm in Indiana, expected to be operational in 2022.
- Pollinator friendly solar farm will offset equivalent of 223,440 metric tons of CO2 each year
- Supports Verizon’s long-term commitment to sustainability
Indianapolis, IN [January 28, 2021] – Lightsource bp today announced that it has entered into a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) with Verizon Communications Inc. that will enable construction of a new 152.5 megawatt ac solar farm in Indiana, furthering Verizon’s goal of being carbon neutral in its operations (scope 1 and 2) by 2035.
The Bellflower solar farm, located about 40 miles east of Indianapolis in Henry and Rush Counties, is expected to become operational in 2022.
“Through their corporate sustainability commitment, Verizon is spurring development of clean and affordable energy sources in the U.S. that benefit us all,” said Kevin Smith, CEO of Lightsource bp in the Americas. “Working together, we’re reducing carbon emissions from electricity generation for the overall grid while delivering substantial local economic benefits. Adding initiatives to enhance local biodiversity further multiplies solar’s contribution to preserving our planet for future generations.”
“Last year, Verizon issued its second $1 billion green bond, which will be used to fund long-term renewable energy purchase agreements – including this agreement with Lightsource bp – that support the construction of solar and wind facilities. These facilities will bring new renewable energy to the grids that power our networks,” said James Gowen, Verizon’s chief sustainability officer and vice president, supply chain operations. “Verizon is committed to supporting the transition to a greener grid by making substantial investments in renewable energy.”
Local economic development
Solar projects can help strengthen local rural economies.
- Bellflower Solar is expected to generate $30 million in property tax revenue to Rush and Henry Counties over its life, benefitting local schools and other community public services.
- The project will create about 250 jobs during construction, with local labor and service requirements included in construction contracts.
- The operations budget for the project of $2.4 million each year will be primarily spent in the region.
Dual use solar – maximizing benefits to the environment and community
An action plan is underway for Bellflower Solar that aims to enhance local biodiversity.
- The plan is to create a pollinator friendly solar farm, designed in collaboration with ecology experts to restore and conserve pollinator habitat.
- The project will be part of pioneering university research on the benefits of co-locating pollinator habitat and solar installations.
Related news
28 Apr, 2025
Lightsource bp celebrates World Safety and Health Day 2025
Lightsource bp celebrates World Day for Safety and Health at Work. At Lightsource bp, safety isn’t just one of our core values, it’s ingrained in our culture.
22 Apr, 2025
Celebrating Earth Day: Renewable energy for our world
Lightsource bp celebrates Earth Day! We're safely delivering large-scale renewable energy projects to create sustainable value for our people, partners and planet.
03 Apr, 2025
Brazil: Milagres named among top solar developers in 2024
Lightsource bp’s Milagres solar farms have been recognised as top-performing renewable energy projects in Brazil, ranking among the top 20 solar developers by e-Power Bay.