BLACKFORD solar
Blackford County, Indiana
Project Overview
Blackford Solar Energy, LLC (“Blackford Solar”) is working on the development of a 150-megawatt (MW) solar facility on approximately 1,250 acres of privately-owned land in Jackson Township, Blackford County, Indiana. The project will connect to AEP’s electric system via a new switchyard along the Keystone-Desoto transmission line.
Blackford Solar is expected to operate for 30+ years, providing significant economic investment to the community, a substantial property tax base for the County and schools, and generate emission-free renewable energy.
Blackford Solar obtained a Special Exception Permit from the Blackford County Board of Zoning Appeals and is currently in late-stage development. Construction of the project is expected to begin in late 2024/early 2025, bringing an influx of new jobs to the community. The Project is expected to begin operating by late 2025 / early 2026.
150
Megawatt (MW) solar Capacity
324,500
Annual Megawatt hours generated
300
Estimated construction jobs
Late 2025 / Early 2026
Targeted operational
Project location
PERMIT PROCESS
Blackford Solar received a Special Exception Permit from the Blackford County Board of Zoning Appeals. The project will begin construction in late 2024/early 2025, bringing an influx of new jobs to the community.
Resources
Blackford Solar and Wind | Facebook
Blackford Solar Project Fact Sheet Download Here
Timeline
Community Open House
Tues., December 14, 2021
6-8 pm
Elks Lodge 625
3104 N. Walnut St., Hartford City, IN
In keeping with our commitment to open and transparent communications with the community, Blackford Solar hosted a Public Information Meeting on Dec. 14 at Elks Lodge 625 in Hartford City, IN. The meeting was intended to provide information on the project and answer questions.
Community Involvement
Blackford Solar is committed to being a dedicated member of the community and to work hard to earn the trust of our neighbors. Our engagement with the community goes well beyond job creation, economic investment, and providing clean, renewable energy. We strive to build lasting partnerships with civic leaders, property owners, and community members. We pride ourselves on being transparent in our communication and highly responsive to public feedback throughout the life of the project. We also believe being involved means giving back. We get to know our neighbors and have a long history of supporting local causes the community is passionate about. Whether through employee volunteer opportunities or corporate-level sponsorships, we are always looking for positive ways to stay actively engaged with the community and to serve as a good corporate neighbor.
About Us
Blackford Solar Energy, LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC. Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE) is a high-growth renewable energy company building a sustainable future for all. The company owns and operates a portfolio of 31 wind, solar, and energy storage facilities across the United States, totaling approximately 3 gigawatts of generating capacity and is actively developing and contracting a robust pipeline of new renewable energy projects. LRE takes a tailored, full-lifecycle approach to its projects, which is underpinned by its long-term ownership model and purpose-driven culture that is dedicated to benefiting its community partners while protecting and enhancing the environment. LRE is a portfolio company of OMERS Infrastructure, an investment arm of OMERS, one of the largest defined pension plans in Canada, with C$127.4 billion in net assets (as at June 30,2023). For more information, visit www.leewardenergy.com.
Responsible Development
Responsible development is an ethos that runs deep at Leeward and our subsidiary companies. We develop, own, and operate renewable generation assets for the long term, and are committed to leaving a positive impact on the communities where we operate. We achieve this by prioritizing our values of community partnership, sustainability and safety.
CLICK HERE for more information about Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC.
Solar frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What will the solar facility look like?
The Blackford solar facility will primarily consist of rows of photovoltaic electric generating modules mounted to steel frames installed on driven steel posts with central inverters spaced throughout the site. The entire perimeter of the Project site will be fenced for security and safety.
Will the solar facility reduce my property value?
Well-developed solar projects will not negatively impact property values. A solar energy facility such as Blackford Solar is a low-intensity, passive use of land. Once constructed, solar projects do not possess the negative qualities that could theoretically impact property values such as hazardous materials, odor, noise, and excess traffic. Enhanced setbacks and professional landscaping will also be used to mitigate visual impact.
Will the solar facility produce glare or noise?
Solar panel technology has advanced significantly in recent years. The solar panels will be manufactured 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.
How long will the solar facility be operational?
The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30-40 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last longer.
Who will maintain the property and vegetation?
Blackford Solar will be responsible for maintaining the solar facility property. We work diligently with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure proper ground cover, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management. We also implement vegetation management plans and best management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and the proper mitigation of overgrowth and invasive plant species.
What happens at the end of the Project’s life?
At the end of the life of the Project, Blackford Solar will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site to its original use. As part of the permitting review process, Blackford Solar will submit a decommissioning plan to ensure that ample consideration and protections will be provided.
How will development of the solar facility affect my community?
Construction will bring new employment opportunities, a large direct investment in the community, and local business generated from the purchase of food, fuel, accommodations, and other local supplies. During the construction period there will be a relatively short-term increase in traffic volume and noise, typical of similar projects.
Once the Project is operational, daily traffic to and from the site will be minimal. Throughout its life, the Project will not burden Blackford County services and utilities; however, it will contribute substantial revenue to local tax authority and provide clean energy in Indiana.
Contact
If you have additional questions about Blackford Solar, please fill out the form below or contact Ben Lenet, Blackford Solar Public Affairs at info@blackfordsolar.com or 765-400-3302.
