Amite Solar Energy Center now delivering low-cost, reliable power to DEMCO members
Greenwell Springs, La — DEMCO announced today that its members are now receiving the benefits of a long-term collaboration with NextEra Energy Resources through the new Amite Solar Energy Center, a 100-megawatt facility located in Tangipahoa Parish.
The solar facility, developed, owned, and operated by a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, achieved commercial operation in March 2025. DEMCO is the sole buyer of the energy and capacity produced at the site under a 25-year, fixed-price power purchase agreement.
“At DEMCO, our responsibility as a member-owned electric cooperative is to secure reliable, affordable power for those we serve—not just today, but for decades to come,” said Randy Pierce, chief executive officer and general manager at DEMCO. “Partnering with Amite Solar allows us to do just that, with a fixed-price agreement that brings long-term price stability and supports a diverse mix of energy resources to meet our members’ evolving needs.”
The agreement allows DEMCO to meet growing demand while protecting members from market volatility—all without requiring any upfront investment from the cooperative.
“Thanks to our collaboration with NextEra Energy Resources, DEMCO members will benefit from dependable, low-cost, fixed-price solar energy for the next 25 years,” Pierce added. “It’s a smart initiative that delivers long-term value for our local co-op and the communities we serve.”
In addition to helping meet energy and capacity needs, the Amite Solar Energy Center also generated significant economic value for the region.
“This is a monumental moment for our team, and we are proud to work with DEMCO to bring low-cost energy to their customers,” said Stuart McCurdy, vice president of development at NextEra Energy Resources. “We're thrilled to deliver homegrown energy that supports local jobs and economic development, exemplifying the power of collaboration between energy infrastructure developers and local utilities in meeting the unprecedented energy demand."
Construction lasted 15 months and generated a significant economic boost to Tangipahoa Parish and the state—supporting more than 200 construction jobs and contributing to Tangipahoa Parish’s tax base. Over the next 30 years, the project is expected to provide approximately $16 million in additional tax revenue to the parish to support public services such as education, infrastructure, and emergency response.
Pierce concluded, “We’re proud to work with NextEra Energy Resources, whose investment and shared commitment directly benefit our members and the communities we call home.”
