Google Signs HFA With Brookfield for 3GW of Hydroelectric Power

Wedoany.com Report-Jul. 16, Google has entered into a hydro framework agreement (HFA) with Brookfield Asset Management and its renewable energy arm, Brookfield Renewable, to secure up to 3 gigawatts (GW) of carbon-free hydroelectric power in the United States. The agreement, valued at over $3 billion, includes 20-year power purchase agreements (PPAs) for two Pennsylvania-based facilities, Holtwood and Safe Harbor, providing 670 megawatts (MW) of capacity.

The deal supports Google’s data center operations in the Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland (PJM) region by supplying clean, reliable energy. The hydroelectric assets involved will be modernized or relicensed to extend their operational life while continuing to deliver power to the grid. This initiative ensures a sustainable energy supply for Google’s digital infrastructure while supporting regional energy needs.

Amanda Peterson Corio, Google’s data center energy head, stated: “At Google, we’re dedicated to responsibly growing the digital infrastructure that powers daily life for people, communities and businesses. This collaboration with Brookfield is a significant step forward, ensuring a clean energy supply in the PJM region where we operate. Hydropower is a proven, low-cost technology, offering dependable, homegrown, carbon-free electricity that creates jobs and builds a stronger grid for all.”

The agreement targets the PJM and Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) electricity markets, with potential expansion to other U.S. regions. Brookfield will maintain existing contracts, such as supplying power from the Safe Harbor facility to Amtrak, ensuring continuity for other consumers. The partnership aligns with Google’s commitment to sustainable energy and supports the growing electricity demands driven by digitalization and artificial intelligence.

Connor Teskey, president of Brookfield Asset Management, said: “Our partnership with Google demonstrates the critical role that hydropower can play in helping hyperscale customers meet their energy goals. Delivering power at scale and from a range of sources will be required to meet the growing electricity demands from digitalization and artificial intelligence.” The collaboration highlights hydropower’s reliability as a carbon-free energy source for large-scale technology operations.

This agreement complements Google’s recent efforts to diversify its energy portfolio, including a commitment to purchase 200 MW of fusion energy from Commonwealth Fusion Systems. By securing hydroelectric power from Brookfield’s facilities, Google strengthens its ability to meet the energy needs of its data centers while contributing to a more resilient and sustainable energy grid in the U.S.

The Holtwood and Safe Harbor facilities will play a key role in providing clean energy to support Google’s operations, reinforcing the company’s focus on environmentally responsible growth. This partnership underscores the importance of renewable energy in meeting the demands of modern technology infrastructure.