Cypress Creek Energy’s Ostrea Solar Project Reaches Commercial Operation
News provided byCypress Creek Energy · 2 min read
Yakima County, Washington, September 3, 2026, Cypress Creek Energy's Ostrea Solar project has reached commercial operation, adding 104 MWdc / 80 MWac of clean, locally generated power to the regional grid. This milestone comes as Washington leads the nation in economic growth, with real GDP expanding at an annualized rate of 4.5% during the first quarter of 2026.
The project, which cost approximately $180 million, is a significant investment in the state's energy infrastructure, aimed at supporting the rapidly growing information sector. Microsoft, headquartered in Redmond, Washington, has signed a power purchase agreement to buy electricity and environmental products generated by the project.
“Washington's economy is thriving, and that growth requires a reliable and sustainable energy supply,” said Kevin Smith, CEO of Cypress Creek Energy. “Ostrea Solar demonstrates how we can responsibly bring new power online quickly and affordably, while creating long-term benefits for our communities and the environment.”
The project’s completion is part of a broader commitment to environmental stewardship. Cypress Creek has preserved 275 acres of critical shrubsteppe habitat and implemented wildlife corridors to support species such as Rocky Mountain elk. During construction, the company removed invasive plant species and restored degraded former cropland, establishing healthy native vegetation beneath and around the solar panels.
“Cypress Creek is dedicated to responsible land management and environmental stewardship,” Smith added. “Our long-term ownership of the project ensures that these efforts continue for generations.”
The Ostrea Solar project not only addresses the growing energy demands of Washington but also generates significant economic benefits. It is expected to produce an estimated $13.3 million in state and local tax revenue over its operating life. Additionally, the project created approximately 300 jobs, many of which were filled by local workers through an apprenticeship program.
Safety was a top priority during construction, with the project achieving a record of zero recordable injuries or incidents. PCL Solar Constructors USA, Inc. served as the project's engineering, procurement, and construction contractor.
Cypress Creek Energy’s commitment to the Yakima County community extends beyond the project’s operational phase. The company has already invested in local initiatives, including a $50,000 contribution to the new aquatic center at Martin Luther King Jr. Park in Yakima and a back-to-school drive at Moxee Elementary School in partnership with PCL. Through its Energizing Tomorrow's Leaders program, 14 local Yakima County students have received scholarships since 2023, totaling $18,500 in educational support.
Ostrea Solar is part of Cypress Creek Energy’s broader strategy to create lasting value through responsible development and meaningful community partnerships. Since inception, the company has commercialized 19 GW of projects and currently operates or has under construction over 6.8 GW of assets, with a development pipeline of 19 GW. Through its in-house operations and maintenance platform, Cypress Creek Solutions manages more than 8.6 GW of energy assets across 24 states.
“Cypress Creek Energy is committed to strengthening the places where we live, work, and build,” said Smith. “Through Ostrea Solar, we are proud to contribute to the economic and environmental sustainability of Washington.”