Hardin III Solar Energy Center, a 250-MW Plant in Ohio, Goes Live

Clean energy developer Invenergy has officially launched the Hardin III Solar Energy Center, a 250-megawatt (MW) photovoltaic facility and the third major solar project by the company in Hardin County, Ohio. Majority-owned by WEC Energy Group, the newly commissioned solar park will deliver renewable power through a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Microsoft Corporation.

The solar center, located in rural northwest Ohio, marks another milestone in Invenergy’s mission to boost domestic clean energy production while supporting local economies.

Microsoft to Buy Energy Output and RECs

Under the PPA, Microsoft will purchase both the electricity and the renewable energy credits (RECs) generated by the Hardin III facility. This agreement supports Microsoft’s ambitious sustainability goals, which include achieving 100% renewable energy supply by 2025.

Also Read: First Solar to begin construction of new Ohio solar PV production facility

Local Impact: Jobs and Investment

Hardin III is expected to bring approximately $180 million in local investment, benefiting public schools, emergency services, and community infrastructure. The construction phase supported more than 350 temporary jobs, while Invenergy Services will employ four full-time staff to manage long-term operations and maintenance.

“This project reflects over a decade of collaboration with the Hardin County community,” said Michael Kaplan, Senior Vice President of Development at Invenergy. “We’re proud to support Ohio’s clean energy future with American-made solar solutions.”

Powered by U.S.-Made Solar Panels

The project utilizes solar panels manufactured by Illuminate USA, a company majority-owned by Invenergy. Since 2023, Illuminate has produced over 9 million solar panels and created more than 1,500 jobs in Ohio’s renewable energy manufacturing sector.

Factsheet: Hardin III Solar Energy Center

• Capacity: 250 megawatts (MW)

• Location: Hardin County, Ohio

• Developer/Operator: Invenergy

• Majority Owner: WEC Energy Group

• Energy Offtaker: Microsoft Corp (via PPA)

• Local Investment: $180 million

• Construction Jobs: 350+

• Permanent Staff: 4

• Solar Panel Supplier: Illuminate USA

• Project Launch: June 2025

• Invenergy Solar Projects in County: 3 (Hardin I, II, and III)

This new solar facility reinforces Ohio’s position as a growing hub for clean energy innovation and sustainable economic development.