Zelestra Signs Long-Term PPA With AEP Energy Partners For 49.9 MW Gem City Solar Project In Dayton, Ohio

Zelestra, a global, multi-technology renewable energy company focused on customer solutions, announced a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with AEP Energy Partners (AEPEP), a subsidiary of American Electric Power (Nasdaq: AEP), for the total electricity output of the proposed 49.9 MW Gem City Solar project in Dayton, Ohio. Once completed, the project will be one of the largest solar generating facilities located within a U.S. city limit. Zelestra is now moving forward with construction planning for the project. Full construction is expected to begin in early 2027, with the facility scheduled to be fully operational by the end of the year.

Brian Whitlatch, senior vice president of AEP Energy, highlighted the significance of the agreement, stating that the company is focused on delivering energy solutions that provide long-term price stability and environmental benefits. He noted that partnerships like this PPA with Zelestra demonstrate the innovative approaches AEPEP can implement to support its customers.

Phil North, Zelestra’s U.S. CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment to high-quality execution, saying, “With the AEP Energy Partners PPA, we’re pleased that the Gem City Solar project can begin construction in the near future. Zelestra is committed to delivering the project to the highest possible standards for AEP Energy Partners, Inc.”

Zelestra continues to expand its presence in the U.S. energy market with innovative, multi-technology solutions designed for the evolving needs of retail electricity suppliers, hyperscalers, and corporate partners. Headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the company is developing a portfolio of approximately 15 GW of renewable energy projects across key markets.