Zelestra Launches 441 MW Meta-Backed Solar Projects in Texas

Zelestra has commenced construction on its two solar projects, the 253 MWdc Echols Grove (Lamar County, Texas) and the 188 MWdc Cedar Range (Hopkins County, Texas).

Both projects have been made possible through long-term power purchase agreements with Meta. McCarthy Building Companies is serving as the primary EPC contractor, managing the construction of both sites. Work began in January 2026, and the projects are expected to reach full commercial operation by the end of 2027. Collectively, they are projected to create over 400 local jobs and contribute around US$20 million to the local economy. In total, about 704,000 bifacial solar panels will be installed across approximately 2,400 acres of land.

Phil North, Zelestra’s US CEO, highlighted the importance of the projects, stating that “Echols Grove and Cedar Range are two major projects in our partnership with Meta,” which will contribute significantly to bringing new clean energy capacity online in the United States. 

In addition, Dhruv Patel, President of McCarthy’s Renewable Energy group, noted that breaking ground on these solar facilities represents more than just infrastructure development, describing them as a long-term investment in local communities that will create employment opportunities and support regional economic growth.