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Big Plain Solar

Madison County, OH

About

LRE subsidiary Big Plain Solar, LLC is a 196–megawatt (MW) solar energy project located on approximately 1,500 acres of privately–owned land near London, Ohio.

Project Overview

The solar facility received permit approval through the Ohio Power Siting Board in 2021, and Big Plain Solar began generating clean energy in mid-2023.

Big Plain Solar is expected to operate for 30+ years, providing significant economic investment to the community, a substantial property tax base for the surrounding county, and generate emission-free renewable energy.

The Big Plain Solar facility is a focal point for Leeward Renewable Energy’s sustainability and land stewardship efforts. The project features a diverse but comprehensive land stewardship program that includes pollinator fields, sheep grazing and on-site apiaries and backs our commitment to be good stewards of the environment and the land under our care.

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Jobs During Construction

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Operational

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OUTREACH

Community Involvement

Big Plain Solar, like all Leeward Renewable Energy facilities, is committed to being a dedicated member of the communities we call home, and we work hard to earn the trust of our neighbors. Throughout the life of every project, we pride ourselves on being transparent in our communication and highly responsive to public feedback. We also believe being involved means giving back. Big Plain Solar has supported local causes the community is passionate about and will continue to do so through the life of the project.

Big Plain Solar has provided support for local youth sports in Madison County, a job training partnership with Clark State College, and partnered with the Friends of Madison County Parks and Trails on a mural project along the Roberts Pass bike trail in London, Ohio. Big Plain Solar will continue to seek positive ways to stay actively engaged with the community and serve as a good corporate neighbor.

TIMELINE
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Planning

2017
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Permitting

2019
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Construction

2022
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Operational

2023
ABOUT US

About LRE (Leeward Renewable Energy)

Founded in Texas in 2003, LRE (Leeward Renewable Energy) owns and operates 30+ wind, solar, and energy storage projects totaling over 4GW nationwide. LRE continues to help meet increased U.S. energy demand through our robust pipeline of new projects every year. We prioritize domestic jobs, local community partnerships, and protecting the land in our long-term approach to meet American energy needs. To learn more, visit www.lreus.com.

FAQ

Solar Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

What community impact can we expect from this project?

This project represents significant financial investment and will generate economic development and employment opportunities, as well as funding for public services through tax revenues. The majority of the job opportunities will be during the construction phase, which will contribute to an increase in purchases of local goods and services by the workforce. There will be an increase in traffic, water use to control dust, and noise onsite during certain periods of construction. Once operational, the site typically will have limited activity and require minimal public resources while generating a local source of emission-free energy.

What are the environmental impacts of the project?

The ultimate goal is to have a positive environmental impact overall. Both the project financing and permitting process include extensive reviews that reduce risks. LRE begins the development process with environmental studies to confirm site conditions. These studies inform project design and management plans for all aspects of the project. In addition, the industry is continually improving technology and management best practices. LRE has a company culture that focuses on reducing risks and increasing safety and is committed to being a good, long-term neighbor and contributor to the community. 

Who will maintain the property and vegetation?

LRE will be responsible for maintaining the solar facility and property including access roads, buildings and energy infrastructure. We implement vegetation and biodiversity management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and reduce invasive plant species and typically include pollinator-friendly seed mixes. On some projects, we partner with shepherds to manage vegetation, while others use mechanical mowing to reduce fire and operations risk.

Will the solar facility produce glare or noise?

Solar panel technology has advanced significantly in recent years. LRE typically uses thin-film solar with tempered glass and anti-reflective coatings, minimizing glare. The moving mechanical parts of a solar facility produce minimal noise and are typically inaudible beyond the property boundaries based on the setbacks that are included in the facility’s design.

What are your plans to accommodate wildlife?

The project design will include several wildlife management features requested by local community members and in consultation with relevant authorities.  In addition, LRE is committed to implementing land stewardship best practices with vegetation and biodiversity management plans.

How long will the solar facility be operational?

The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30 to 40 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last longer. Many projects may also be “repowered” to extend the productive life of the project. This includes upgrading existing components to improve performance or increase capacity, which requires additional reviews and permits. At the end of the life of the project, the Big Plain Solar project will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site.

CONTACT

Contact us

If you have additional questions about Big Plain Solar, please fill out the form or contact

Big Plain Solar Public Affairs
reports@syntrio.com
877-847-0828

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