In a significant boost to Ohio’s energy infrastructure, Avangrid has announced the commercial operation of its Powell Creek Solar project in Putnam County. The 202 MWdc solar farm is Avangrid’s second power facility in Ohio. It is expected to power approximately 30,000 homes annually. Strategically timed ahead of peak summer demand, the Powell Creek Solar Project represents a crucial addition to the regional electric grid. It supports growing power needs from data centers, domestic manufacturing, and electrification.
The Powell Creek project is more than just a source of renewable energy; it’s a significant economic driver for the local community. With an estimated $150 million in direct investment, the project is expected to generate $31 million in local tax revenue. Additionally, the Powell Creek Solar Project will provide around $1.1 million in annual lease payments to landowners. This will inject much-needed funds into the local economy. The village of Miller City is set to benefit particularly. They plan to use revenue from the project to construct a new sewer line. This will encourage new home and business development.
Avangrid’s CEO, Pedro Azagra, highlighted the importance of the project. He said that it demonstrates the company’s ability to deliver on the energy needs of communities across the country. With over 300,000 solar panels and 500 construction jobs supported during its development, Powell Creek is a testament to Avangrid’s commitment. It aims to meet surging electricity demand while supporting local jobs and economies.
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Avangrid’s broader efforts
As part of its initiatives, which include the Powell Creek Solar Project, Avangrid is committed to expanding its energy capacity in the US. In the past six months, the company has added nearly 600 MW of domestic energy capacity to the grid. This underscores its commitment to reliable and sustainable energy solutions. With over 500 MW of installed capacity in Ohio, Avangrid is well-positioned to support the state’s growing energy needs. As the company continues to invest in renewable energy, its Ohio footprint is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy. It includes around $3 million in state and local taxes and $5 million in lease payments to landowners last year.
The Powell Creek Solar project is a timely and welcome addition to Ohio’s energy landscape, providing clean energy, economic benefits, and a reliable source of power for thousands of homes and businesses.
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Powell Creek Solar Project Comes Online: Factsheet
Project Name: Powell Creek Solar Project
Location: Putnam County, Ohio
Capacity: 202 MWdc (150 MWac)
Annual Energy Production: Enough to power approximately 30,000 homes
Investment: $150 million in direct investment
Economic Benefits:
The Powell Creek Solar Project will contribute $31 million in local tax revenue over the project’s lifetime.
$1.1 million in annual lease payments to landowners
Jobs: Supported 500 construction jobs, mostly filled by local union workers
Project Features:
Over 300,000 solar panels featured in the Powell Creek Project
Enhanced access roads for efficient maintenance and operations
Advanced underground electric collection cables for reliable power transmission
State-of-the-art collection substation and inverters for optimized energy conversion
Commercial Operation Date: June 2025
Developer: Avangrid
Read also: RWE Breaks Ground on 98 MWac Union Ridge Solar Farm in Licking County, Ohio
