Lightsource bp Recognized as Top Solar Developer in the USA, Deploying Over 1.7 GW in 2024
Key Insights
Lightsource bp has been named the top solar developer in the United States by Solar Power World for its significant project deployments in 2024.
The company brought 14 utility-scale solar projects totaling over 1.7 gigawatts (GW) into commercial operation across six states during the past year.
This recognition underscores Lightsource bp's critical role in addressing rising electricity demand from data centers and industrial electrification with tailored renewable energy solutions.
Lightsource bp's in-house capabilities and efficient project execution are key factors in its ability to rapidly deploy large-scale solar facilities and drive the U.S. energy transition.
Lightsource bp, a global leader in renewable energy development, has been recognized as the United States’ top solar developer on Solar Power World’s prestigious annual Top Solar Contractors list. This significant achievement, announced on July 31, 2025, underscores the company's accelerated impact on the U.S. energy landscape, driven by its robust project pipeline and efficient execution capabilities.
During 2024, Lightsource bp successfully brought 14 utility-scale solar projects into commercial operation across six states, collectively adding more than 1.7 gigawatts (GW) of clean energy capacity to the national grid. This substantial deployment highlights the company's pivotal role in meeting the escalating demand for renewable electricity, particularly from industrial consumers and burgeoning data center operations.
Emilie Wangerman, Chief Operating Officer and Head of USA at Lightsource bp, commented on the recognition, stating, “Our presence on the Top Solar Contractors list reflects Lightsource bp’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality renewable energy projects that help industries meet their energy needs, create jobs, and boost local communities.” Wangerman further emphasized the strategic positioning of the company: “With rising electricity demand fueled by the rapid increase of data centers and electrification across industries, we are uniquely positioned to provide tailored, renewable energy solutions that help our partners meet their operational goals.”
Lightsource bp’s operational strength is rooted in its comprehensive in-house capabilities, spanning the entire project lifecycle from development and engineering to financing and long-term asset management. This integrated approach enables the company to streamline processes, mitigate risks, and accelerate the deployment of large-scale solar facilities efficiently and at pace. The 2024 portfolio included diverse projects, such as the 180 MW Lightsource bp solar project in Louisiana, which commenced operations earlier in the year, contributing to U.S. manufacturing and local economic growth.
This top ranking comes amidst a period of unprecedented growth in the U.S. solar sector, driven by supportive federal policies and increasing corporate demand for clean energy. Lightsource bp’s ability to navigate complex permitting landscapes, secure power purchase agreements (PPAs) with major off-takers, and execute construction on schedule has set a benchmark in the industry. As the demand for electricity continues its upward trajectory, Lightsource bp is poised to leverage its scale, expertise, and agility to further meet the United States’ evolving energy needs, solidifying its role as a key enabler of the nation's energy transition.