Portage Solar is expected to generate more than $73m in direct economic benefits during its first two decades, Credit: Burns & McDonnell.

Geronimo Power, formerly National Grid Renewables, has commenced construction on its 250MW Portage Solar project in Portage County in the US state of Wisconsin.

The project, part of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) market, follows the earlier start of construction on the Apple River solar project in Polk County, Wisconsin.

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Portage Solar is expected to generate more than $73m in direct economic benefits during its first two decades, encompassing new tax revenue, job creation, increased local spending and charitable donations.

It will provide $24m in tax revenue to the local county and townships. Combined with Apple River, the projects will bring more than $100m in direct economic impact to Wisconsin.

In October 2024, Geronimo Power signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Microsoft for Portage Solar.

Geronimo Power construction vice-president Joe Ibrahim stated: “The true value of renewable energy isn’t in the power it provides to the local grid. It’s about the immensely positive impact on local economies in the form of new revenue streams and job creation. 

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“We anticipate the addition of Portage Solar to our Wisconsin portfolio will contribute more than $100m statewide – that’s a huge milestone for us and a big win for our project communities.”

Geronimo Power has collaborated with engineering, procurement and construction firm Burns & McDonnell on the project.

Burns & McDonnell chair and CEO Leslie M Duke stated: “As demand for data centres continues to grow, so does the need for reliable, renewable energy.

“We are proud to support Geronimo Power in the build-out of the Portage site. Together with local union halls and contractors, we are supporting the workforce and strengthening the community as we build.”

The solar project is anticipated to create 300 construction jobs, with a focus on employing local Wisconsin craft labour.

Geronimo Power has also committed $1.25m to local charities and organisations over the project’s first 20 years through a dedicated charitable fund.

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