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.

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.

Read also: Mammoth Solar Project Indiana Moves Forward

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.

Read also: DESRI and Ranger Power secure financing for 290 MW Michigan solar projects

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