Cypress Creek Energy Opens 104 MW Ostrea Solar Farm in Washington
Cypress Creek Energy has officially launched its 104 MWdc Ostrea Solar project in Yakima County, marking a $180 million boost to Washington’s energy infrastructure. The facility, which provides power to Microsoft, coincides with the state’s rapid economic expansion and highlights a shift toward integrating large-scale renewables with local habitat conservation.
By Corp and Tech·September 3, 2026·2 min read·2,527 reads
The project connects 80 MWac of capacity to the Bonneville Power Administration grid, addressing the electricity demands of Washington’s booming technology sector. Real GDP in the state grew at an annualized rate of 4.5% during the first quarter of 2026, creating an urgent need for reliable power sources that can scale alongside the economy.
Beyond power generation, the project serves as a test case for long-term land stewardship. Cypress Creek collaborated with state agencies to protect 275 acres of shrubsteppe habitat and established wildlife corridors for migrating elk. Construction efforts focused on restoring degraded cropland, replacing invasive species with native grasses and pollinator-friendly vegetation.
The development phase generated 300 jobs, with 75 apprentices logging 39,000 hours on-site. Over its 40-year lifespan, the solar farm is projected to contribute $13.3 million in tax revenue to the region. Cypress Creek plans to maintain its presence in Yakima County through ongoing community investments, including local scholarship programs and infrastructure support for public facilities.
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