EDF Renewables North America and Enbridge Inc. today celebrated, in the presence of over 100 guests, the completion and start of commercial operation of the first phase of the 150 MWac Fox Squirrel Solar project. When the three phases are completed in 2024, the 577 MWac project will be one of the largest solar developments east of the Mississippi.
“The development and operation of Phase 1 marks an important milestone in our journey toward Ohio’s renewable energy future,” says Kate O’Hair, senior vice president of onshore development at EDF Renewables North America.
Strategic partnerships and implications
Developed by EDF Renewables and owned in partnership with Enbridge, Fox Squirrel Solar will help meet the growing demand for energy in central Ohio, which is expected to double by 2028. At the event, Amazon announces that it has entered into power purchase agreements for total production capacity, contributing to its commitment to use 100%renewable energy for its operations by 2030.
Corporate commitments and local impact
Kevin Miller, Vice President of Global Data Centers at AWS, says Amazon is proud to support new solar and wind projects in Ohio.
“These projects not only power our operations, but also provide carbon-free energy to local communities.”
Tom Carbone, Vice President of Business Development at Enbridge, points out that Fox Squirrel Solar is essential to the company’s commitment to the energy transition. Steve Stivers, president and CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, adds that this project is crucial to stabilizing the state’s electrical infrastructure.
Economic benefits and employment opportunities
Nearly 400 skilled tradesmen and women are currently working on the project, peaking at 650 during construction of Phase 1. Blattner is the engineering, procurement and construction contractor for the project. Pat Hook, Business Manager of IBEW Local 683, highlights the skills of local workers in building world-class solar power plants. Ralph Cole, Business Manager of the Ohio Workers Council, is excited about the job opportunities created by Fox Squirrel Solar.
Technology and innovation
Comprising 1.4 million panels and 159 inverters, Fox Squirrel Solar is the largest onshore renewable energy project developed by EDF Renewables North America. EDF Renewables, with its 35 years of experience and 16 gigawatts of developed wind, solar and storage projects, is committed to providing integrated solutions to help its customers achieve their carbon reduction goals.
The inauguration of the first phase of Fox Squirrel Solar symbolizes a major step forward for renewable energies in Ohio. Thanks to strong partnerships and cutting-edge technologies, this project will make a significant contribution to the state’s energy transition and local economic growth.
