WestRock’s First Virtual Power Purchase Agreement Project Reaches Commercialization

WestRock (NYSE:WRK), a leading provider of sustainable fiber-based paper and packaging solutions, is making progress toward its science-based greenhouse gas targets by supporting the first of two Texas-based solar projects. WestRock set the stage by entering into virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) with ENGIE North America (ENGIE), a subsidiary of ENGIE S.A. and global leader in the net zero energy transition.

Bernard Creek Solar, LLC, the first of two solar projects that are part of the VPPAs between WestRock and ENGIE, is now live and operating in Wharton County southwest of Houston. Under the VPPA, WestRock contracted 207 MW from the project. The 230 MW Bernard Creek solar project is on track to produce approximately 500,000 MWh annually, generating over $45 million in revenue for the county and creating more than 250 jobs during construction.

The WestRock VPPA for the Bernard Creek project, combined with a similar project located in Bell County, will add a total of 282 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy to the Texas energy grid.

“We are pleased to play a role in the production of clean energy from large-scale solar projects and to join forces with ENGIE and Schneider Electric to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by adding more renewable energy to the grid,” said David B. Sewell, president and chief executive officer at WestRock.
more at: https://www.westrock.com/news/press-releases/westrocks-first-virtual-power-purchase-agreement-project-reaches-commercialization

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