Ohio's largest solar farm to pioneer agrivoltaics in the US

By Andi Anderson

Ohio has greenlit a landmark project that will revolutionize renewable energy and agriculture practices in the state and across the nation. The $1 billion Oak Run Solar Project, approved by the Ohio Power Siting Board, is set to become Ohio's largest solar farm and the United States' largest agrivoltaics project.

Spanning over 6,000 acres in Madison County, west of Columbus, the Oak Run Solar Project will harness solar energy while integrating agricultural practices. With the endorsement of the Ohio Power Siting Board, this innovative project will feature an 800-megawatt (MW) solar farm, complemented by two 3.5-mile-long transmission lines and a 300 MW battery energy storage facility. Once operational, it will generate enough electricity to power 170,000 households.

Spearheaded by Kansas City-based Savion, a Shell Group subsidiary, Oak Run Solar Project will pioneer agrivoltaics by combining solar panels with agriculture. Amidst local opposition, Oak Run's approval comes with conditions aimed at mitigating concerns. The project will graze at least 1,000 sheep and cultivate crops on 2,000 acres within the first year. Furthermore, within eight years of operation, at least 70% of the project area, equivalent to 4,000 acres, will incorporate agrivoltaics.

This ambitious endeavor marks a significant step towards sustainable energy and agricultural practices. It will generate $7.2 million in annual revenue for Madison County, local governments, and schools, while also creating 1,500 union construction jobs.

Nolan Rutschilling, Managing Director of Energy Policy at the Ohio Environmental Council, underscores the importance of Oak Run Solar Project in addressing climate change and enhancing agriculture practices. By integrating agriculture with solar panels, the project presents a groundbreaking opportunity to mitigate climate challenges while promoting sustainable innovation.

The Oak Run Solar Project sets a precedent for utility-scale solar energy plans that combine renewable energy generation with agricultural productivity. With its approval, Ohio embraces a forward-thinking approach to address climate change and foster economic growth through renewable energy and agrivoltaics.

Photo Credit -istock-shansekala