Ohio is emerging as a renewable energy leader, with large-scale solar projects such as the Union Solar Farm and Fox Squirrel Solar Farm driving a clean-energy revolution. These projects are about more than just sustainability; they are transforming local economies and communities in ways that extend beyond the environment.
Union Solar Farm: Powering 62,000 Homes and Building Local Roots
Union Solar Farm, located near Marysville in central Ohio, exemplifies how renewable energy can drive economic and environmental progress. This 325 MW facility covers 22 square miles and has over 760,000 solar panels, generating enough energy to power approximately 62,000 homes each year.
But the impact does not stop with clean energy. During its construction, the farm created over 370 jobs, with nearly 80% of them being filled by Ohio residents. Now operational, the facility provides 20 permanent jobs, making a significant contribution to the local economy.
ACCIONA Energía has implemented a Social Impact Management program, reinvesting a portion of the farm’s earnings into community development initiatives to improve residents’ quality of life. From job creation to community engagement, Union Solar Farm exemplifies how renewable energy can generate widespread benefits.
Fox Squirrel Solar: Ohio’s Largest Solar Farm Changing the Game
The Fox Squirrel Solar Farm, located just west of Columbus in Madison County, is a game changer for Ohio’s renewable energy efforts. At 577 MW, it is the state’s largest solar project, with 1.4 million solar panels and 159 inverters spread across a vast landscape. This clean energy powerhouse generates enough electricity to power 118,000 homes per year.
The numbers supporting the project are impressive. Construction was divided into three phases, with the final phase completed in late 2024. Fox Squirrel had 650 employees at its peak, who worked a total of 1.5 million hours. Like Union Solar, the energy generated here contributes to Amazon’s sustainability goals via a long-term power purchase agreement.
Beyond energy production, Fox Squirrel Solar emphasizes the value of community investment. EDF Renewables, in collaboration with Canadian energy company Enbridge, has focused on creating local jobs and promoting environmental responsibility. Senior Vice President Kate O’Hair emphasized the millions of dollars invested in the area and the long-term benefits the farm provides to local communities.
Ohio’s Bright Renewable Future
Ohio is only getting started. With the Oak Run Solar Project, which will be 800 MW when it goes online later this year, the state is on track to surpass even its own lofty renewable energy targets. Ohio is currently ranked 13th in the nation for solar capacity, but plans to move up to 8th place within the next five years by adding 9,574 MW to its grid.
These initiatives represent a significant shift: sustainability and economic development can coexist. With corporate behemoths like Amazon driving demand for clean energy through long-term contracts, Ohio is establishing itself as a national hub for renewable energy innovation.
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