Union Ridge Solar

 

Project Summary

RWE is constructing the Union Ridge Solar Project, a 127.71-megawatt dc (98-megawatt ac) solar facility on approximately 550 acres of privately-owned land in Harrison Township, Licking County, Ohio.

Union Ridge Solar will provide a stable, long-term economic benefit to the Licking County area.

Economic Benefits:

  • The project is expected to pay approximately $753,900 into the tax base annually, benefiting Harrison Township, Licking County Fund, and the Southwest Licking Local School District.

  • The project is expected to create an estimated 279 construction jobs (during peak construction).

Health/Visual Concerns:

  • There are no harmful pollutants or negative health impacts. Check out our FAQ section and read the NC State Clean Energy Technology Center report for more information.

  • Trees and shrubs will be planted as a vegetative buffer to reduce views of the solar farm.

Environmental Commitment:

  • We plant perennial plants which increase soil stability, improve infiltration, and help promote biodiversity

  • Solar energy reduces emissions and impacts from power generation as compared to more traditional power plants

The energy generated at Union Ridge Solar will deliver power to the 138 kV Kirk substation. Union Ridge Solar is expected to generate approximately 210,000 to 225,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity each year. The solar-powered electricity generated will deliver clean, renewable electricity to the Ohio bulk power transmission system to serve the needs of electric utilities and their customers.

 

Questions

For more information on health concerns, construction and other frequently asked questions, please visit FAQs.

For links to research reports on economic development in Ohio and health concerns please visit Resources.

Schedule

Acquisition of land and land rights began in 2020 was completed by March 2021. During this time, outreach was conducted to various community stakeholders, including Project area neighbors, various local government entities, and community organizations.

Due to restrictions around the COVID-19 pandemic, Union Ridge held a webinar and teleconference on February 25, 2021 to present Project details to the community, and facilitate public interaction with the Applicant and expert consultants. It included information on the Applicant; the Project’s location, size, and the supporting rationale; the types of studies and due diligence that will be conducted by Union Ridge Solar; the Ohio Power Siting Board’s review and certification process; the expected timeline of the Project and construction process; and responses to any questions submitted by the public prior to the meeting. A record of these comments is available on the Application Documents page. 

Final designs will be completed and construction is anticipated to begin in February 2025 and be completed within 11 months, at which point Union Ridge Solar will be placed in service. Closeout work will continue through Spring 2026.

Go to the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) page for more information.