Lightsource bp Starts Commercial Operation of 180 MW Solar Project in Louisiana

Lightsource bp’s 180 megawatt (MWdc) solar project in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, has entered commercial operation. The USD 170 million privately funded solar farm serves as a concrete example of the ways investing in homegrown energy delivers real, measurable benefits to local communities and the broader economy. 

Located about 30 miles north of Lafayette, Prairie Ronde Solar aims to increase America’s renewable energy dominance, revitalize domestic manufacturing, and drive investment into communities historically reliant on conventional energy sources. 

Emilie Wangerman, Chief Operations Officer of Lightsource bp USA, said: “The Prairie Ronde solar project is a powerful example of domestic energy investment in action. Working together with our partners, we are building a more resilient grid with US-made products, supporting underserved communities, creating jobs, introducing homegrown energy solutions and reducing our nation’s dependence on foreign imports.” 

The Prairie Ronde solar project features solar equipment sourced from US manufacturers:  solar panels from Arizona-based First Solar and smart solar trackers from New Mexico-based Array Technologies.  

Additionally, the Prairie Ronde solar farm will provide a boost of more than $20 million to St. Landry Parish throughout the life of the project. This revenue, including $8.3 million in the first five years after construction begins, will bolster public resources such as local school systems and emergency services. An additional $3.9 million annual operating budget will be spent primarily in the region as well.  

Jessie Bellard, St. Landry Parish President, said: “Lightsource bp’s investment in St. Landry Parish represents a new day for our community and our schools. Their funding boosts job-creating development projects, stronger infrastructure, and better education for our children. With this support, St. Landry Parish is poised to become a regional leader in innovation and opportunity for all.”