177-megawatt facility delivers reliable power, economic benefits, and U.S.-made innovation
DALLAS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–LRE (Leeward Renewable Energy) today announced the completion of construction and start of commercial operations at its 177-megawatt (MW) Ridgely Solar project in Lake County, Tennessee, located approximately 100 miles north of Memphis. The project marks LRE’s first operating asset in the state and underscores the company’s commitment to advancing energy solutions across the U.S.
Ridgely Solar supplies power to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) under a long-term agreement, supporting TVA’s mission to deliver reliable, clean energy to help meet the region’s growing demand. The project generates substantial economic investment, including approximately $3 million in property tax revenues over its lifetime. Ridgely Solar created approximately 700 jobs during construction, and the revenue generated for the county will go toward supporting schools and public services, altogether strengthening the community.
Beyond delivering reliable and cost-effective energy, Ridgely Solar has become a partner in the Lake County community, supporting initiatives that strengthen education, safety, and family well-being. The project has funded scholarships through the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Northwest, helped build an inclusive playground for children with disabilities, and supported the American Red Cross Mid-South’s local flood relief efforts. Ridgely Solar has also contributed to public safety infrastructure for first responders and provided resources for The Nest, a daycare at Margaret Newton Elementary that offers free childcare to local families.
Ridgely Solar represents a remarkable engineering achievement, driven by innovative solutions that ensure safe construction and long-term performance. LRE’s engineering team collaborated with Nextracker and First Solar, continuing its long-standing partnerships with both U.S.-based leaders. Together, their technologies reduce the need for earthwork and steel, preserve habitats, accelerate deployment, and strengthen domestic supply chains. Nextracker’s NX Horizon-XTR™ terrain-following solar tracker systems, along with First Solar’s advanced thin-film photovoltaic modules, deliver industry-leading performance and reliability. These partnerships underscore LRE’s commitment to resilient energy infrastructure built on U.S.-made innovation.
“Ridgely Solar is a significant milestone as LRE’s first project in Tennessee,” said Eran Mahrer, Chief Commercial Officer at LRE. “The project delivers reliable energy, drives investment in Lake County, and demonstrates our role as a community partner by supporting local priorities. Further, by building on our long-standing relationships with U.S. technology leaders, prioritizing domestic jobs and manufacturing, and integrating innovative solutions that reduce impacts and speed deployment, Ridgely shows how forward-looking projects can strengthen the communities where we operate and contribute to our nation’s long-term energy security.”
“Projects like Ridgely Solar make a lasting difference for our community,” said Danny Cook, Mayor of Lake County. “This project expands opportunity and supports long-term growth for Lake County while contributing to reliable energy for the region.”
About LRE
Founded in Texas in 2003, LRE (Leeward Renewable Energy) owns and operates 30+ wind, solar, and energy storage projects totaling over 4GW nationwide. LRE continues to help meet increased U.S. energy demand through our robust pipeline of new projects every year. We prioritize domestic jobs, local community partnerships, and protecting the land in our long-term approach to meet American energy needs. To learn more, visit www.lreus.com.
Contacts
For more information:
Otilia Ayats-Mas
214-808-2654
