Fox Squirrel Solar, the largest solar farm in Ohio, has successfully commenced operations in its initial phase, injecting 577 megawatts (MW) of clean electricity into the grid. Nestled in Madison County, west of Columbus, the solar facility encompasses three phases, with Fox Squirrel 1, a 150 MW segment, already operational. The subsequent phases include Fox Squirrel 2, a 250 MW unit expected to be online by mid-2024, and Fox Squirrel 3, a 177 MW segment slated for completion by the year-end.
Developed and constructed by EDF Renewables North America, Fox Squirrel Solar stands as Ohio's premier solar initiative and marks the largest onshore clean energy project in the state. With a total of 1.4 million solar panels and 159 inverters, the facility, when fully completed, is projected to generate sufficient clean electricity to power approximately 118,000 households.
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During the peak construction phase of Fox Squirrel Solar's first segment, a workforce of 650 individuals was on-site, installing an impressive 10,000 solar panels daily. Canadian energy company Enbridge has invested in the project's initial phase and is contemplating final investment decisions for the subsequent phases throughout the year.
EDF Renewables North America reports that the project has secured 20-year fixed-price power purchase agreements for its entire generation capacity, with a “strong investment grade counterparty.”
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) foresees significant growth in Ohio's solar capacity. Presently ranked 22nd among states for solar capacity, Ohio is anticipated to add 8,960 MW over the next five years, propelling it to the fourth position in the United States for capacity.
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As the Fox Squirrel Solar project contributes to Ohio's clean energy landscape, it underscores the state's commitment to sustainable energy solutions, aligning with broader national trends in the renewable energy sector.
