Ridgley Solar and LRE Honored for Educational Support 

LRE and the Ridgely Solar project in Lake County, Tennessee were recently honored for their work with the Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Philanthropy for 2026. The award recognized LRE’s support in creating a scholarship fund available to any student at the Tennessee Applied Technology Colleges (TCAT), a local college system providing training and certification for workers to obtain technical skills.   

Funds for the scholarship were provided through the LRE Foundation and raised through the LRE Charity Golf Tournament. 

Dr. Youlanda Jones, President of Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Northwest, stated that LRE exemplifies what it means to be a committed partner in education and workforce development.  

“Through its strategic investment in educational initiatives, the company has expanded pathways to career success, empowered our students to pursue meaningful opportunities, and helped strengthen the skilled workforce our region needs to thrive,” Dr. Jones said. “LRE’s generosity extends far beyond financial support—it is an investment in our students, our institution, our communities, and the future of Northwest Tennessee.” 

The award recognizes exceptional philanthropic contributions to Tennessee’s community and technical colleges and is awarded to entities or individuals who have made sustained, significant, and impactful contributions. 

At a recent ceremony, Ridgely Solar Plant Manager Matt Turner accepted the award from Cris Perkins, Executive Director of the Tennessee Board of Regents. 

Matt noted that “both LRE and I personally want to be good neighbors in whatever community we’re in. We’re especially proud to help young men and women get started in trades which this country needs more of.” 

“TCAT Northwest is deeply grateful for LRE’s steadfast partnership and dedication to creating lasting opportunities for those we serve,” Dr. Jones added. “We were honored to nominate Leeward Renewable Energy for the Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor Award for Excellence in Philanthropy, and we are exceptionally proud to see the company receive this well-deserved and prestigious distinction. This recognition reflects not only their generosity, but the profound and lasting impact of their commitment to education, workforce development, and our region’s future.”

About LRE

Founded in Texas in 2003, LRE (Leeward Renewable Energy) owns and operates 30+ wind, solar, and energy storage projects totaling over 4 GW nationwide. LRE continues to help meet increased U.S. energy demand through its robust pipeline of new projects every year. We prioritize domestic jobs, local community partnerships, and protecting the land in our long-term approach to meet American energy needs. To learn more, visit www.lreus.com.