National Grid Renewables has officially started construction on its 100MW Apple River Solar Project in Polk County, Wisconsin. The project is expected to deliver significant economic benefits, including job creation and new tax revenue for the local area.
Joe Ibrahim, Vice President of Construction at National Grid Renewables, remarked:
“As a company founded by a farmer in the Midwest, we have a strong commitment to bolstering rural economies through our renewable energy projects, and it's exciting to see that growth in western Wisconsin.”
The Apple River project is projected to generate over US$36 million in direct economic impact over its first 20 years of operation. This includes an estimated US$10 million in tax revenue for Polk County and local townships.
The project will create approximately 150 construction and service jobs, with The Boldt Company overseeing the construction efforts. Apple River will use First Solar's Series 6 Plus bifacial modules and, once operational, will provide power to Xcel Energy to serve customers across the Upper Midwest.
Set to begin operations in late 2025, Apple River is expected to generate enough renewable energy to meet the annual electricity needs of about 26,000 homes.
