The Wilson County Commission has approved a special use permit for the proposed Sunflower Sky Solar Project, a 65-megawatt solar generation facility planned to span over 500 acres of farmland south of Altoona in rural Wilson County, Kansas.
The decision follows months of discussion and was finalized after a brief executive session at the commission’s April meeting. With this approval, the project is now cleared to move forward to the construction phase, expected to begin this summer.
Developed by Sunflower Sky Solar Project, LLC, the facility is poised to bring significant benefits to the local community. It represents a major economic development opportunity, generating revenue for local tax jurisdictions that fund key public services.
Beyond its economic impact, the solar project will deliver clean, low-cost renewable energy to regional consumers. By increasing electric grid resilience and providing essential backup power, the project will help reduce outages and contribute to environmental sustainability.
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Background on the Sunflower Sky Solar Project
The Sunflower Sky Solar Project is a proposed 65-megawatt (MW) utility-scale solar energy facility developed by Sunflower Sky Solar Project, LLC, aimed at harnessing solar energy to meet growing energy demands in Kansas. The project site—over 500 acres of agricultural land south of Altoona—was selected for its high solar potential and proximity to existing transmission infrastructure.
The project aligns with broader efforts across Kansas to expand renewable energy development, reduce carbon emissions, and strengthen the electric grid. Once operational, it will generate enough electricity to power thousands of homes each year while providing long-term financial benefits to local landowners and taxing authorities.
During construction, the project will create temporary jobs and boost the local economy through service contracts and material sourcing. Over the long term, it will deliver consistent tax revenue and offer a cleaner, more resilient energy supply to the region.
Sunflower Sky Solar Project, LLC has been actively engaging with local stakeholders to ensure transparency and cooperation. The company is committed to addressing community concerns and maximizing the positive impact of the project for Wilson County.
Other Solar Projects in Kansas
The Sunflower Sky Solar Project joins a growing list of solar energy developments across Kansas, highlighting the state’s increasing investment in renewable energy. Other notable solar projects include:
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Johnson Corner Solar Project (Stanton County) – A 27.5 MW facility by Lightsource bp, operational since 2020, powering approximately 4,200 homes.
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City of Pratt Solar (Pratt County) – A 7.7 MW system completed in 2019 by Inovateus, serving over 1,100 homes.
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Sunflower Electric Solar @ Russell (Russell County) – A 20 MW facility on 143 acres with over 44,000 solar panels, operational since early 2025.
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Jeffrey Solar Project (Jefferson County) – A large-scale project in development by NextEra Energy Resources, with a capacity of up to 500 MW.
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KCI Airport Solar Project (Kansas City) – A planned 500 MW installation covering approximately 2,000 acres near Kansas City International Airport, expected to serve up to 70,000 homes.
These projects reflect Kansas’s growing role in the national renewable energy transition, bringing environmental benefits and long-term economic value to communities across the state
