Steel River Energy Center
A major new energy investment designed to deliver reliable, affordable power for Arkansas
About the Project
The Steel River Energy Center is one of the most significant new energy infrastructure projects in the United States and the nation’s largest solar project with battery energy storage. Built on Arkansas steel and American manufacturing, the project incorporates one of the highest levels of domestic content ever used in a utility-scale energy project.
Once complete, Steel River will deliver locally generated, affordable electricity to help meet the region’s rapidly growing demand, ensuring there is enough power to keep Arkansas homes and businesses running. Advanced battery storage will store affordable solar energy and deliver it when it is needed most, helping strengthen grid reliability, reduce the risk of outages, and keep electricity prices stable.
Key Project Facts
2.46 GW Solar Capacity
to help meet growing demand for low-cost power
2.94 GWh Battery Storage
designed to support grid reliability
$4.5B+ Private Capital
investment in long-term Arkansas energy infrastructure
Phased Construction Approach
all 3 phases expected in service by 2029
Mississippi County, Arkansas
locally generated power for regional energy needs
America's Largest Solar Project with Energy Storage
to meet growing demand: quickly, affordably and reliably
Strengthening Mississippi County and Arkansas
The Steel River Energy Center will provide a major long-term economic boost to the Town of Wilson, Mississippi County, and the surrounding region. The project will support local jobs, generate significant tax revenue, strengthen the electric grid, and deliver lasting benefits for the community.
1,400 Construction Jobs
for phases 1 & 2, with the vast majority Arkansas workers
$300 Million in Local Tax Revenue
estimated over the life of the project, benefiting Rivercrest School District, Mississippi County, and Wilson
American-Made Materials
including 100% U.S.-made structural steel and U.S. manufactured solar panels
Built on Arkansas Steel
with steel piles manufactured in Blytheville using more than 142,000 tons of steel produced at Big River Steel mill in Osceola
Reliable Power with Battery Storage
helping meet growing demand, supporting grid resilience, and keeping electricity prices stable
Land Stewardship
native vegetation will be planted under and around the solar panels to support wildlife, biodiversity, and long-term soil health
Our Community Commitment
At Cypress Creek Energy, being a good neighbor means more than building energy projects. We believe our work should leave communities stronger. As a long-term owner and operator of energy infrastructure, we approach every project with a commitment to responsible development, partnership, and lasting local benefits. Because we own and operate our projects for decades, we plan, build, and manage them with the expectation that we will be part of the community for years to come.
Responsible Development
The aerial photo above, from the Steel River Energy Center, illustrates how solar projects are designed to preserve the land for future use while supporting healthy soils and wildlife habitat beneath and around the panels. The small black dots visible throughout the image are the steel posts that support the solar panels. Because the posts occupy only a small portion of the site, more than 90% of the land remains available for vegetation that improves soil health and provides habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.
Corporate Giving
We invest in organizations and initiatives that help communities become stronger and more resilient for the long term.
In Mississippi County, Cypress Creek has established a dedicated $3 million community investment fund, beginning with a $400,000 contribution to Rivercrest School District for a new playground. We also support Rivercrest School District’s backpack program, helping provide food to 100 local families throughout the school year.
Project Updates and Stories
Stay informed about important updates, insights, and stories about the Steel River Energy Center, including project milestones, construction progress, and community announcements.
Cypress Creek and Google Break Ground on America’s Largest Solar Project
July 14, 2026
Cypress Creek Energy Secures $3.5 Billion to Advance One of America’s Largest Solar and Storage Projects
June 11, 2026
Cypress Creek Acquires 2.5 GW Solar Project with 2.9 GWh Energy Storage in Development in Arkansas from Swift Current Energy
March 11, 2026
Information and Resources
Find additional information about the Steel River Energy Center, including project documents, FAQs, and other helpful resources.
Site Location
Meet the Project Team
Aaron Helton
Associate Director, Government Affairs & Economic Development
Aaron joined Cypress Creek in 2025 to support their Government Affairs for Arkansas, Texas, and Oklahoma. Prior to joining Cypress Creek, he spent five years as a congressional district staffer before serving as Deputy Chief of Staff in Washington, D.C. Aaron graduated from Texas State University and lives in Texas with his wife and 2-year-old daughter. Outside of work, he enjoys running marathons and hunting.
Samuel Davis
Associate Director, Community & Stakeholder Engagement
Samuel Davis is a 7th-generation Texan from a West Texas ranching family whose land proudly hosts a renewable energy project. A graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Communications and a minor in Business, he ventured to California to work with startups before returning to Texas for nonprofit work. At the Land & Liberty Coalition, he empowered landowners to take charge of their energy future by embracing renewables. Passionate about storytelling, Samuel is currently producing RENEWING TEXAS, a documentary exploring the intersection of energy and culture in the Lone Star State.
